Almost a year after Marineland on the French Riviera closed – and following months of controversy over where the two remaining orcas would be relocated – we are delighted that the French government has confirmed it will work with the Whale Sanctuary Project to develop a plan to bring Wikie and Keijo to the Nova Scotia sanctuary.
To welcome the orcas in 2026, construction at the sanctuary must be completed by the end of this summer. This timeline is essential, as the whales will need several months to acclimate to their new environment before the onset of winter. This is the only viable and humane solution for these marine mammals. It is also important to remember that this situation was created by the captive marine industry, which profited for decades from Wikie, Keijo, and the dolphins and other animals held at Marineland. Previous attempts to relocate the orcas to Japan and Spain fell through, making Nova Scotia the right and responsible decision.
Marine Connection will continue to advocate for cetacean sanctuaries worldwide, as captive marine mammals deserve the opportunity to live out the rest of their lives in ocean-based sanctuaries.
Watch part 1 of CAPTIVE – featuring Marineland’s orcas here
