The Neptune Society, the largest cremation-only services company in the U.S., has announced a new final resting place: The Neptune Memorial Reef.

Located 3.25 miles off the Miami Coast in 45 feet of crystal clear water, the Neptune Memorial Reef will attract divers, ecologists, tourists ... and those looking for a final resting place of unmatched beauty.

Set to launch Winter 2007, The Neptune Memorial Reef is planned as a re-creation of the legendary Lost City that will be the largest man-made reef of its type in the world. Covering over 16 acres of ocean floor, the Neptune Memorial Reef will offer room for more than 125,000 remains, and become a "living city" that will act as a sanctuary for marine life to converge and thrive. The idea was created by visionary Gary Levine and famed designer/sculptor Kim Brandell. Jerry Norman, President and CEO of the Neptune Society, said, "The Neptune Memorial Reef is a first for the industry and a major step toward creating a new way for people to honor and remember their loved ones in a beautiful setting that reaffirms life and promotes marine habitat, coral growth and supports tourism. With the help of time and nature, this underwater memorial city will become a living reef of colorful marine life and coral growth that holds secure the remembrances of the dearly departed for all time." 

The intricate concrete and bronze structures were conceived by Levine and Brandell to encourage marine life to make the city their home. In creating this special habitat, Neptune Memorial Reef has the potential to become a large and active marine research site, and the builders believe that its massive size will act as an undersea breakwater and reduce erosion of the ocean's floor. Norman believes that changing times and changing perspective on the funeral experience make this an ideal time for the launch of The Neptune Memorial Reef. "We live in a more mobile society and one that is moving away from traditional services. Cremations now account for over 30% of all funeral services in the U.S. and that number is expected to rise over the next two decades. The Neptune Memorial Reef provides a natural setting for loved ones that is also a awe-inspiring destination where family can gather and enjoy." 

For more information on the Neptune Memorial Reef, or to see the underwater video, visit: http://www.nmreef.com/.