Yes, this is real.
Yes, it’s legal.
We get a lot of questions. Here are the honest answers to all of them.
Legality & Regulations
Is it legal to scatter ashes?
In most cases, yes — with the right approach. In the US, you can scatter on private land with permission, in national forests (with a simple permit), and at sea beyond 3 nautical miles. International regulations vary by country, and some require permits. We research and handle all of this for every trip.
Can ashes be shipped internationally?
Yes. Cremated remains (legally called "cremains") can be shipped internationally with proper documentation: a death certificate, a cremation certificate, and customs paperwork. We walk you through exactly what's needed and handle all customs documentation on our end.
What about places like National Parks or Everest?
National Parks technically prohibit scattering without a permit, but many rangers look the other way for discreet, respectful scatters. For high-profile destinations like Everest Base Camp, we work through proper expedition channels. We'll always tell you the honest picture for your destination.
Are ashes hazardous material?
No. Cremated remains are inert bone fragments — no biological hazard. They're alkaline (high pH) but are classified as non-hazardous for shipping and transport purposes.
How It Works
How much ash do you need from us?
A small amount — typically 1-4 cups depending on the experience. A full cremation produces 3-9 lbs of ashes, so you're keeping the vast majority. We'll specify exactly how much based on your chosen experience.
How do we ship the ashes to you?
USPS Priority Mail Express is the only USPS service that legally accepts cremated remains domestically. We send you detailed instructions and the documentation to include. For international trips, we coordinate the customs paperwork. It's simpler than it sounds.
What if the trip gets delayed or cancelled?
We will always return ashes if a trip cannot be completed. For Vault expeditions that take longer than expected, we provide updates and the option to withdraw. Your loved one's remains are always yours.
Can family members join the trip?
For some experiences, yes — especially domestic trips. International and expedition trips are generally just us, but families are absolutely welcome to watch via live stream. We've had families watch from six different countries at once.
The Vault
What exactly is The Vault?
For expensive expedition-style trips (Antarctica, Everest Base Camp, Amazon), the economics only work when multiple families want the same destination. The Vault holds ashes in a secure, climate-controlled facility until we have enough participants to run the expedition right. Think of it as a shared charter.
How long do Vault expeditions take?
It varies. Antarctica slots typically fill within 6-18 months. Everest Base Camp is similar. We give you an honest estimate when you sign up, and we update you as we get closer to the threshold.
How are ashes stored in the Vault?
In individually labeled, sealed containers in a climate-controlled, secure facility. Each container is logged with chain-of-custody documentation. Your loved one's remains are never mixed with others.
Pricing & Process
How much does this cost?
It varies enormously by destination. A local scatter starts at a few hundred dollars. A summit experience might be $1,500-$4,000. International multi-destination trips run $3,000-$10,000+. Antarctica and Everest are priced per shared expedition. Tell us the wish and we'll give you a real number — no commitment needed.
When do I pay?
Never until you approve the plan. We put together a custom proposal, walk you through it, and only take a deposit when you're ready to move forward.
What do I actually receive?
GPS coordinates and a route map of the scatter location(s), video documentation of the journey and the scatter, a custom memorial certificate, and photos. Optional add-ons: live stream, extended video production, framed print of the GPS route.
What if I'm not satisfied?
We'll make it right. Full stop. This is a once-in-a-lifetime thing and we take that seriously.