Imagine a life spent in perpetual confinement, looking out through an opaque barrier at a world you were naturally designed to explore – a world of open seas, complex ecosystems, and the inherent bonds of family – a world forever out of reach. This profound injustice has fueled a global movement to end dolphin captivity, and in Europe, through the unwavering dedication of numerous animal welfare advocates and legislative bodies, significant progress is being realized. We are pleased to report that the tide is decisively turning in favor of these intelligent and sensitive marine mammals.

For decades, the plight of captive dolphins has been a central focus for organizations advocating for animal welfare. Now, a new era of hope is emerging, driven by a growing understanding of dolphin sentience and the ethical imperative to provide them with more natural and enriching environments. This includes the development of rehabilitation centers and true sea sanctuaries, offering a pathway to recovery and dignified retirement for dolphins formerly held in performing facilities. A pioneering example of such an endeavor is the Umah Lumba Rehabilitation, Release and Retirement Center in Banyuwedang Bay, West Bali, Indonesia. This facility stands as the world’s first and only permanent sanctuary dedicated to the long-term care and eventual release or retirement of formerly performing dolphins. Inspired by this success, organizations across Europe are actively pursuing and evaluating potential sites for future sanctuaries to accommodate the increasing number of dolphins who will require relocation as more European facilities transition away from exhibiting these creatures. For a comprehensive overview of the critical issues surrounding dolphin captivity and the ongoing efforts to protect these animals, we invite you to explore Dolphins in Captivity.

Here are some of the most impactful developments shaping the future for dolphins across Europe:

Scandinavia’s Pioneering Move: Kolmården Zoo, Sweden

A landmark decision in March 2022 marked a pivotal moment for dolphin welfare in Scandinavia. Kolmården Zoo in Sweden, a facility known for its long history of breeding dolphins in tanks, publicly announced the impending closure of its dolphinarium and its commitment to relocating its resident dolphins. This momentous move is set to make Scandinavia entirely dolphinarium-free, establishing a powerful precedent for other nations and demonstrating the feasibility of phasing out these exhibits.

Greece’s Definitive End to Dolphin Exhibits: Attica Zoological Park, Greece

The journey to liberation in Greece has been characterized by persistent advocacy. In 2020, following years of controversy and escalating public criticism, Attica Zoo in Greece saw its dolphinarium license officially revoked. Building on this progress, the zoo announced in early 2025 that its remaining dolphins would be transferred to new homes abroad, definitively ending its dolphin exhibit and solidifying Greece’s status as a dolphinarium-free nation. This represents a triumph for animal welfare and a clear response to the evolving ethical landscape.

Spain’s Shift: Madrid Zoo Aquarium, Spain

At the beginning of 2025, Madrid Zoo officially ceased all dolphin shows and closed its dolphin exhibit, reflecting a significant shift in public and institutional attitudes towards marine mammal entertainment. While the subsequent transfer of these dolphins to Hainan Ocean Paradise in China highlights the ongoing challenges, it also underscores the critical and immediate need for the establishment of more marine mammal sanctuaries within Europe. These dedicated facilities are essential to ensure that dolphins released from captivity can find appropriate, naturalistic homes closer to their original environments.

Belgium’s Legislative Commitment: Boudewijn Seapark Dolphinarium, Bruges, Belgium

Belgium has taken a crucial step forward with a robust legislative measure. In November 2024, the Flemish government mandated the end of dolphin captivity by 2037, with provisions for this deadline to be accelerated. This clear legislative framework provides a structured pathway for the responsible phasing out of current dolphin exhibits, allowing for careful planning and the development of ethical alternatives for the animals in question.

France’s Progressive Animal Welfare Law: Marineland of Antibes, France

France has positioned itself at the forefront of animal welfare reform with its comprehensive 2021 animal welfare law. This pioneering legislation mandates the cessation of all marine mammal shows, breeding programs, and imports by December 2026. In direct alignment with this law, Marineland of Antibes, a facility that historically featured wild-caught and captive-born orcas and bottlenose dolphins in performances, closed its doors in January 2025. Animal welfare organizations in France are now actively engaging with authorities to facilitate the creation of permanent sanctuaries for the dolphins (and orcas) still residing at the park. It is important to note that while the law is broadly protective, dolphin captivity may still be permitted in specific, limited circumstances if it directly supports approved scientific research.

The concerted efforts of dedicated organizations, passionate activists, and forward-thinking legislative bodies are fundamentally transforming the landscape of marine mammal captivity in Europe. Each facility closure, every legislative advancement, and the establishment of new sanctuaries represent a vital step towards a future where these intelligent and socially complex creatures can live in environments that prioritize their well-being and natural behaviors. Sustainable Action Now is committed to highlighting these successes, advocating for continued progress, and fostering a global movement that champions the freedom and protection of all marine life. To learn more about how you can contribute to these crucial initiatives, please visit Dolphins in Captivity.