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Nov 03, 2025Sea Burial vs Columbarium vs Garden Scattering Singapore — Which Is Right for Your Family?
Sea burial vs columbarium vs garden scattering Singapore is a deeply personal decision that many families face after cremation. Each memorial option carries its own symbolism, cost, and emotional meaning. Moreover, the right choice depends on how your family wishes to honour a loved one’s memory. In this detailed comparison by Singapore Funeral Committee (SFC), we explain the differences, benefits, and costs so you can make a thoughtful and confident choice.
🌊 Sea Burial Singapore — A Natural and Gentle Farewell
A sea burial Singapore service involves scattering ashes into the ocean, typically from Marina South Pier or Changi Ferry Point. Families often select this choice for its symbolic return to nature and peaceful simplicity. Additionally, the open sea provides a reflective atmosphere that brings calm and closure. Consequently, sea burial has become increasingly popular among freethinkers and environmentally conscious families.
💰 Sea Burial Cost Singapore
- From S$280 — shared weekday sailing
- From S$688–S$988 — private vessel with flowers or music
To plan a sea burial Singapore respectfully, contact Singapore Funeral Committee (SFC) at +65 9844 8444. Our team manages every detail with care, ensuring a smooth and heartfelt farewell.
❤️ Sea Burial Pros
- Peaceful and meaningful “return to nature”
- No long-term storage or renewal fees
- Eco-friendly and affordable memorial choice
⚠️ Sea Burial Cons
- No fixed location for annual visits
- Weather or tides can occasionally affect timing
🏛️ Columbarium Singapore — Permanent and Traditional Memorial
Choosing a columbarium Singapore niche provides a stable and permanent place for remembrance. Government-managed columbaria such as Choa Chu Kang Columbarium or the upcoming Garden of Peace Columbarium offer affordability and structure. In contrast, private columbaria provide premium amenities, air-conditioned halls, and customised family niches. Furthermore, this option suits families who wish to perform regular prayers and uphold religious traditions.
💰 Columbarium Cost Singapore
- NEA niche: S$500–S$900 (20-year lease)
- Private columbaria: S$2,000–S$10,000+
❤️ Columbarium Pros
- Permanent site for prayers and remembrance
- Customisable with plaques, photos, and flower displays
- Supports long-term cultural and religious practices
⚠️ Columbarium Cons
- Lease renewal required every 20 years (NEA)
- Higher long-term cost compared to scattering options
🌿 Garden Scattering Singapore — A Modern and Eco-Conscious Choice
Singapore now offers two official gardens for ash scattering: the Garden of Serenity at Mandai North and the Garden of Peace at Choa Chu Kang. Both provide landscaped, tranquil environments where families may scatter ashes amidst greenery and water features. Moreover, these spaces are fully managed by the NEA, with each session recorded officially for order and respect. As a result, garden scattering has become a meaningful middle ground between sea burial and traditional columbarium placement.
💰 Garden Scattering Cost Singapore
- From S$320 per session (NEA-managed)
❤️ Garden Scattering Pros
- Peaceful, landscaped setting with natural elements
- No lease renewal or long-term maintenance
- Environmentally sustainable and affordable option
⚠️ Garden Scattering Cons
- No personal plaque or urn storage
- Advance booking needed during high-demand periods
📊 Cost Comparison — Sea Burial vs Columbarium vs Garden Scattering Singapore
| Option | Cost (S$) | Memorial Type | Renewal Needed? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sea Burial Singapore | 280 – 988 | Ocean scattering (Marina South Pier or Changi Ferry Point) | No |
| Columbarium Singapore | 500 – 10,000+ | Indoor/outdoor niche or Garden of Peace Columbarium | Yes (every 20 years) |
| Garden Scattering Singapore | 320 | Landscaped scattering area at Garden of Serenity or Garden of Peace | No |
🌺 How to Choose Between Sea Burial, Columbarium, and Garden Scattering Singapore
When comparing sea burial vs columbarium vs garden scattering Singapore, consider emotional, spiritual, and practical factors. Sea and garden scattering represent simplicity, renewal, and a return to nature. However, columbarium niches offer permanence and accessibility for family gatherings. Additionally, some families combine both — scattering a portion of ashes at sea or in a garden, while keeping a symbolic urn at home or in a niche. Therefore, the best choice is one that reflects your loved one’s wishes and brings peace to your family.
Ultimately, open discussion ensures understanding among family members. As a result, every farewell becomes meaningful, respectful, and deeply personal.
📞 Contact Singapore Funeral Committee (SFC)
For professional advice on sea burial vs columbarium vs garden scattering Singapore, reach out to Singapore Funeral Committee (SFC). Call or WhatsApp +65 9844 8444 for 24-hour guidance and compassionate assistance.