Wakes, Memorials and Scattering Ashes in York

City Cruises would like to offer you a private and calm space, to scatter your loved one’s ashes, hold a memorial service or host a wake, on the River Ouse in York.

Many individuals have an affiliation and special memories of the River Ouse, be it fishing on the banks, walking a beloved pet, growing up in the city or summer walks around the riverbanks.

We have carefully selected a location just outside the City Centre in the peaceful countryside, to say your final farewell.

 

York City Cruises vessel cruising down river ouse

 

The Vessel

We will carefully select the best boat for your individual needs, guest numbers and date request.

Amenities aboard our fleet include:

  • Music facility
  • Bar area supplying hot, cold and alcoholic beverages.
  • Welcome drinks on request
  • Catering options
  • Heated saloon and open area to scatter ashes
  • Washroom facilities
  • Space for up to 50 guests

 

The Ceremony

Holding your remembrance on the River Ouse is a special experience. We will take your lead and create a memorable and sensitive charter.

Guests are welcome to bring religious officials or celebrants aboard. We offer the facility to play background music, hymns, poems, or meaningful songs through our sound system and provide space for acoustic musicians.

Guests are permitted to throw a small offering of floral tributes into the river. But to protect our wildlife and environment, these should be limited and include no plastic/metal or non-biodegradable items.

Scattering ashes directly onto the water can sometimes lead to the ashes being blown which can be distressing for some of the family. We recommend a biodegradable urn that will dissolve in water and would be more than happy to direct you to websites that provide these.

For a lasting tribute, register your ashes scattering online and make a virtual dedication to your loved one. You can mark the location, add tributes, photos, and special notes. Information will be provided on booking.

You may prefer a short 1-hour cruise with no frills or a longer cruise with catering and entertainment – we appreciate each event is different and would be happy to talk through the different options.

 

For more information:

Please fill out the enquiry form or contact one of our dedicated team members to start planning your event at [email protected].

Request More Information

Tell us about your event






Minimum of 20 quests required for event planning





Kind Words from Families We've Had the Honour to Support

It was amazing! Thank you so much - Everything fell into place - lovely service and kirtan, Mam was sent off beautifully. The boat staff/crew were absolutely lovely! Folks loved it - Please pass our thanks onto everyone.
- Samantha
- Samantha
So happy we chose to scatter our mother’s ashes in York, she is at peace in such a beautiful place. Please thank the Crew on our behalf. It was our first experience and a very memorable one.
- Jasbir
- Jasbir
Just to let you know the Farewell Cruise went just about perfectly. Your staff are lovely people: helpful, sympathetic, and calmly professional.
- Ros
- Ros

Our Fleet