Marineland d’Antibes: Orca and Dolphin Transfer Again Postponed

The transfer of 14 cetaceans from Marineland d’Antibes to Spain faces further delays, pushing the expected departure into the fall. Initially slated for "imminent" movement in early May, the relocation of two orcas, Wikie and Keijo, and twelve dolphins has encountered new obstacles.

“

The transfer is a matter of weeks.

Minister Mathieu Lefèvre had emphasized the "urgency of the situation" during a visit to the park, which has been closed since January. While the park's CEO, Pascal Ferracci, stated the transfer was "a matter of weeks," current estimates suggest the orcas will move to Tenerife and the dolphins to Valencia and Malaga by the fall. Some dolphins may eventually go to the Beauval zoo.

“

The urgency of the situation.

The logistical complexities of transporting marine mammals by air, including coordination with Nice airport, are compounded by the current heatwave in France. Options for nighttime departures are reportedly being considered. Animal rights groups, such as Tilikum's Spirit, have expressed outrage over the potential mid-July departure of the dolphins, highlighting concerns about the disruption of their social bonds.

“

The dolphins are going to leave.

Meanwhile, the park's pools have reportedly fallen into disrepair, with greenish water and deserted stands, raising alarms about the animals' welfare. Approximately forty employees, including caretakers, continue to work in the "ghost park" environment as they await the resolution of the transfer plans.

“

The departure of the dolphins in the first half of July.