Marine Connection has recently reviewed new footage, taken on June 16, 2025, of the dolphins held at Mediterraneo Marine Park, Malta. Disturbingly, it is clear that nothing has improved for these marine mammals, despite our consistent efforts to engage the relevant Maltese authorities responsible for overseeing their welfare.
At this time of year, temperatures regularly exceed 30°C. As the images above show, shade has been erected over the public seating of the interaction tank area, meaning that the owners of the facility appreciate the necessity of protecting their customers from strong sunlight, yet the dolphins in both the show and interaction tanks still have no access to shade — it is deeply concerning that such a basic necessity for any animal kept in captivity, especially in such harsh conditions is not being met. Lack of shelter from the sun not only causes distress but also poses serious risks to their physical health and mental well-being.
Additionally, the water quality and condition of the tanks appear substandard, indicating poor maintenance and management. Yet, in October 2024, Dr. Chetcuti Ganado, Principal Veterinary Officer at the Veterinary Regulation Department (VRD), responded to our concerns by stating that the conditions for these dolphins are “adequate.”
We must be clear: “adequate” is not good enough. Under animal welfare laws, every captive animal is entitled to an environment that supports their physical and psychological health. What we are witnessing at Mediterraneo does not meet that standard.
These dolphins are suffering, and they cannot speak for themselves, but you can speak on their behalf.
- We urge the public and concerned authorities to take immediate action.
- Demand a full, independent investigation into the conditions at Mediterraneo Marine Park.
- Call for a permanent end to dolphin captivity in Malta.
It’s time to put the welfare of these intelligent, sentient beings first. ENOUGH IS ENOUGH.
Please email the Veterinary Regulation Department voicing your concern
(sample letter below)
duncan.chetcuti.ganado@gov.mt
Subject: Urgent Concern Regarding Dolphin Welfare at Mediterraneo Marine Park
Dear Dr. Chetcuti Ganado and Veterinary Regulation Department,
I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the ongoing conditions experienced by the dolphins held at Mediterraneo Marine Park, Malta. Recent footage dated June 16, 2025, viewed by Marine Connection, shows that the dolphins continue to be kept in tanks with poor water quality, inadequate maintenance, and most distressingly, without access to any shade. Given the high summer temperatures—regularly reaching 30°C or more—it is unacceptable that these intelligent and sensitive marine mammals are left without shelter from the sun. This poses a serious risk to their physical and psychological well-being. Despite repeated appeals over the past months from advocacy groups and individuals, no meaningful improvements appear to have been made. While your October 2024 response suggested the conditions were “adequate,” this assessment does not align with basic animal welfare standards, nor with legal and ethical obligations in Malta toward animals kept in captivity.
I respectfully urge your department to:
- Immediately investigate the current conditions at Mediterraneo Marine Park.
- Enforce the implementation of shaded areas in all dolphin enclosures.
- Conduct independent water quality assessments and ensure proper maintenance.
- Reassess the welfare status of the animals using updated and internationally recognised welfare standards.
Malta has an opportunity to demonstrate true leadership in marine animal protection. I sincerely hope that your department will act swiftly and decisively to protect these dolphins from further neglect and suffering.
Thank you for your time and attention to this critical matter.
Yours faithfully,
