Netilat Yadayim: The Ocean

Can I wash my hands for bread in the ocean?

Shalom!

Thank you for your question.

One who is near the ocean without a washing cup or proper handwashing facilities may immerse one’s hands in the ocean in place of the routine washing.

There is some discussion, however, as to what blessing should be recited when dipping one’s hands in the ocean for Netillat Yadayim. The Shulchan Aruch rules that one recited the regular "…al netilat yadayim" blessing while the Rema adds that some say "… al tevilat yadayim" or "… al shetifat yadayim." While there are those who do change the wording of the blessing as just mentioned, the halacha is like the Chazon Ish to recite the standard “…al netilat yadayim.” since according to all opinions ons one is yotsey with this bracha.

It is important to note that one with a washing cup may not simply fill the washing cup with ocean water and wash one’s hands in the regular manner. This is because one may not use water for Netilat Yadayim that even a dog would not drink and no dog drinks ocean water due to its saltiness.