Spreading of mom’s ashes

Question

Hi there. We are planning on coming to Napili Point (mom’s favorite place) in March to commemorate her passing. She asked us to spread her ashes where the whales migrate and we’re looking for options. A couple of places have responded to our inquiries but not sure they’re the right fit. There are only 3 of us attending and would ideally like to do an outrigger canoe. Any recs would be greatly appreciated !

Answer

I’m very sorry for your loss — I think it’s beautiful that you’re planning to honor your mom at Napili Point. Doing a sea scattering or outrigger-canoe “paddle out” in Maui can be a deeply meaningful way to fulfill her wishes. Here are some of the more established and appropriate options + things to know, based on current services and local laws. I also highlight what you should check carefully so the trip is respectful, legal, and as peaceful as possible.

✅ Is scattering ashes at sea in Maui legal — and what rules apply

In Hawai‘i, scattering cremated ashes at sea is generally permitted. If you choose to go this route, best practice is to be discreet and respectful of the environment — for example using a biodegradable urn or puʻolo (wrap), and making sure you scatter the ashes at a reasonable distance from shore. Because you are in a small group (just the three of you), that helps avoid complications from permit requirements, which tend to apply for larger gatherings. Also, many ash-scattering charters on Maui comply with U.S. Coast Guard regulations and environmental guidelines, giving you a legal and safe way to carry out the ceremony.

🚤 Charter / Tour Options on Maui for Ash-Scattering — including outrigger canoe if possible

— They offer “private ash scattering tours … on our outrigger canoes,” which seems to match exactly what you want: small-group (private), canoe-based, and intimate. Price-wise they advertise starting around “$500 for up to 6 people.”
— This provider offers private-charter scattering ceremonies departing from harbors such as Lahaina or Maalaea. They can often accommodate small parties, and can customize the ceremony (for example including a minister or a Hawaiian “kahu” if you wish).
— Another professional service offering burial-at-sea / scattering of ashes from Maui; their charters are U.S. Coast Guard–approved vessels and they handle all the logistics (urn, disposal, paperwork) if you prefer a fully handled memorial.

🌊 What to plan / ask when you book

Tell them you wish to depart from west-side / Napili / Kaanapali / Lahaina harbors (the closest to Napili Point) — confirm whether they can take you out in that area or to a spot near where whales migrate (depending on season).
Ask whether they offer outrigger canoe (or small boat) rather than a large charter — since you are only three people and want an intimate, respectful ceremony. Maui Pacific Tours appears to offer exactly that.
Make sure the ashes will be released via a biodegradable urn or puʻolo / eco-urn (rather than a conventional urn which may not dissolve or might harm the environment). This is also more in line with local regulations and marine-life respect guidelines.
Confirm how far off-shore the scattering will occur. Many charter services ensure the release happens a safe distance from shore to honor environmental and federal regulations.
If you wish, ask if they can provide a small ceremony — a Hawaiian “pule” (prayer), chant, or opportunity to drop flower petals along with the ashes. Some charter services offer that as part of a memorial package.

💡 Why these options may be a good fit for your family

Because you are a small group (just 3), a private canoe or small-boat charter gives you intimacy and privacy — often very important for a memorial like this. The smaller size reduces cost compared to larger “tour-style” charters, and avoids large crowds. Also, many of these services will guide you on the respectful and legal way to scatter ashes (e.g. using biodegradable urns, going sufficiently offshore, and ensuring discreet ceremonies), which helps you honor your mother’s wishes properly. Finally, picking a west-Maui departure makes sense given your tie to Napili Point.

🙏 My gentle suggestions if I were you

Reach out to Maui Pacific Tours first — since they explicitly mention outrigger-canoe ash-scattering and seem well-suited for a small family group.
Also contact Hawaii Ash Scatterings and Sea Services as backup options — in case scheduling or ocean/sea conditions on your chosen date make a canoe charter impractical.
Be flexible with timing — ocean and weather conditions in Maui can shift, so if you have a few possible days in your trip window, that flexibility can make the service smoother and safer.
Consider asking the provider about whether a short blessing or Hawaiian-style tribute (flower petals, chants/prayers, a small ceremony) can be part of the scattering — since honoring your mom’s spirit in a way connected to local culture can feel meaningful and grounding.

📌 Final Thoughts

Yes — you absolutely have real and meaningful options to honor your mom’s wishes at sea near Napili / West Maui. Charter services on Maui are experienced with ash scattering and can offer a dignified, private, and legal ceremony that respects both your family’s intentions and the ocean environment. Given that you’re a small group and likely want something intimate and respectful, a private outrigger-canoe charter (like Maui Pacific Tours) feels like a particularly good match.

Spreading of mom’s ashes

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