Aquamation® Water Cremation

Aquamation® Water Cremation is a gentle and natural farewell that honours your loved one with the care, respect and personal meaning they deserve.

Funerals by Design is proud to be the first funeral service on Sydney’s Northern Beaches to offer Aquamation®, in partnership with Water Cremations NSW.

This gentle and environmentally conscious alternative to traditional flame cremation is also known as water cremation or alkaline hydrolysis.

Aquamation® is particularly meaningful for families who want the softest possible farewell as well as for those who value sustainability.

How Does Aquamation® Water Cremation Work?

Aquamation® uses a combination of warm water, gentle flow and natural minerals to return the body to its natural form. The process is slower and softer than flame cremation, producing fine, light-coloured ashes that many families describe as “beautiful to hold”.

The Aquamation® process mirrors the way a body would naturally break down in the environment, but in a carefully controlled, clean and respectful setting.

The ashes from Aquamation® are safe for the earth, unlike flame cremation ashes, which can harm plants. This means that families can use Aquamation® ashes to create living memorials, planting trees or flowers that will thrive.

Why Choose Water Cremation?

Aquamation® Water Cremation offers a gentle, environmentally friendly alternative to flame cremation, providing families with more ashes to cherish and a process grounded in care and respect.

Gentle Process – No flames, no smoke, just water, warmth and time. Many families find comfort in its gentleness and respect.
More Ashes Returned – Aquamation® preserves up to 20–30% more of your loved one’s remains compared to traditional cremation, offering a greater sense of connection and comfort.
Environmentally Friendly – Water Cremation produces less than 10% of the carbon emissions of a flame cremation and much fewer carbon emissions than a standard burial. It uses around one-eighth of the energy of flame cremation, produces no direct air emissions and creates ashes that can safely nourish plants and soil.

No invasive mortuary procedures – Unlike flame cremation or burial, the Aquamation® process does not remove medical devices such as pacemakers, implants, or jewellery to be removed from the body before Aquamation®. This helps maintain dignity and respect for the body after death.

Compassionate Support at Every Step

We will guide you through the Aquamation® process, answer your questions and help you create a farewell that feels right for you and your family.

You do not need to arrange anything extra as your loved one will be fully insured from the moment we take them into our care until their return.

If you would like to learn more about Aquamation® and whether it is the right choice for your family, please contact us. We are here to listen, guide and support you with compassion and care.