Overview

• Marineland Antibes, once Europe's largest marine park, closed in January 2025 following a French ban on cetacean performances.
• Two orcas, Wikie and her son Keijo, and 12 dolphins remain confined in algae-filled, decaying pools with minimal care from a skeleton staff.
• Relocation proposals to facilities in Spain, Japan, and Canada have been blocked or rejected, leaving no viable options for the animals' rehoming.
• Animal welfare group TideBreakers released drone footage exposing the dire conditions and is urging immediate sanctuary placement.
• French authorities cite logistical and regulatory challenges in finding a suitable European sanctuary, prolonging the animals' suffering.