Controversy Erupts Over Transfer of Dolphins from Marineland d’Antibes to Spain

Since January 2025, when Europe’s largest marine park, Marineland d’Antibes, closed, the transfer of its captive dolphins has sparked heated controversy. Eight dolphins have recently begun relocation to a facility in Malaga, Spain, continuing the evacuation process that initially moved twelve cetaceans to the southern Spanish park.

Animal rights organizations, notably One Voice, have condemned the move as a "state scandal" and criticized the transport as a "high-risk journey" for the dolphins, emphasizing that their safety and welfare cannot be assured during such transfers. The group denounces what it calls "a shame orchestrated by money," implicating financial motives behind the decision despite the potential jeopardy to the animals.

Anti-captivity activists view this transfer as a profound betrayal of the dolphins' well-being. They regard the closure of Marineland and subsequent dolphin evacuation as a tragic event and have expressed deep concern about the dolphins’ treatment and the risks posed by long-distance transportation.

The unfolding situation highlights broader tensions between conservation and captivity interests in France, igniting public debate about animal rights and ethical responsibilities in managing marine mammals. Activists continue to demand greater transparency and consideration for the animals’ health amid ongoing transfers.