NEA to launch 2-year pilot for sea burial ferry services in 2027

The National Environment Agency (NEA) will begin a two-year pilot programme for ferry services to facilitate sea burials from the second half of 2027.

According to an Oct. 12 press statement by NEA, the pilot ferry service will operate weekly from Pasir Panjang Ferry Terminal.

The service, to be managed by an operator appointed by NEA, will accommodate multiple groups on a single vessel.

It aims to offer a cost-effective alternative for families seeking more accessible sea scattering options.

A fee of S$50 per application applies.

Changing demographics and demand

NEA said that the pilot comes in response to the growing demand for ash scattering as the cremation numbers in Singapore increase — about 82 per cent of those who pass away in Singapore are cremated.

These numbers are bolstered by Singapore's ageing population and subsequently a greater need for after-death services.

Notably, annual deaths are projected to increase from about 26,500 in 2025 to about 40,000 by 2040.

In 2021, inland ash scattering (IAS) was introduced.

Its prevalence has grown over time, with NEA stating that the proportion of cremations where ashes were scattered at IAS facilities rose from about 7 per cent in 2022 to about 12 per cent in 2025.

This growing preference for ash scattering has led NEA to explore additional options to meet public needs.

NEA also cited a study by the Institute of Policy Studies (IPS) which found that 42 per cent of respondents indicated a preference for ash scattering as opposed to storing their cremated remains.

Of these respondents, 15 per cent preferred IAS while 27 per cent preferred sea scattering.

Chew Ming Fai, the Deputy CEO and Director-General of Public Health for NEA, said that the agency is committed to providing more options for people making after-death arrangements for their loved ones. 

He added that the pilot will not only make the scattering of ashes at sea more accessible, but also allow NEA to better understand demand and shape the service to meet the public's needs.

While the two-year pilot runs, NEA will look at uptake and gather feedback to assess the long-term viability of the service.

More details will be made available ahead of the commencement of operations in 2027.