Move to Spain beckons for orcas and dolphins of Europe's largest dolphinarium

©Iewek Gnos via Unsplash

Marineland management reports that it has a possible solution for the transfer of two orcas and 12 dolphins still in the closed zoo. Europe's largest dolphinarium had to close its doors in January 2025. But since then, the animals there have been swimming in circles, trapped in their tiny enclosures and the administrative and political tangle.

However, an interesting arena seems to be emerging. Provided it gets the green light from the French government, the animals could move to Spain by the end of June.

"A way out of the impasse must be found," said French Minister of Ecological Transition Mathieu Lefèvre, who visited the park and was able to observe the deterioration of its facilities.

Marineland is located in Antibes, France, and for many years was the largest dolphinarium in Europe. However, it closed its doors in early January 2025 because French legislation no longer allows shows with cetaceans as of 2026. The dolphinarium also struggled with sharply declining visitor numbers due to the changing spirit of the times.

Located on the Côte d'Azur, near Nice and Cannes, the park attracted visitors for decades with dolphin, sea lion and orca shows, a shark tunnel and several aquariums. But as of January 5, 2025, no visitor entered. Due to the presence of large marine mammals in captivity, the park has been causing high-level discussions since its inception.

The side attractions nearby, such as Aquasplash and Adventure Golf, did maintain their own operations.

Since the closure, the park and the French government have been trying to find a new use for the animals. Especially the two orcas Wikie and Keijo are regularly in the news. However, finding a suitable habitat for such animals is a major challenge. Animal organizations, meanwhile, are alertly watching over the welfare of the orcas and dolphins residing in the closed park. The remaining animals could therefore move to Spain at the end of June where they will be offered better living conditions. For now, they are waiting for the green light to set up the move.

©Iewek Gnos via Unsplash - illustration image of an orca in captivity.