Mediterranean's First Dolphin Refuge Set to Launch

The Mediterranean's first sanctuary dedicated to dolphins that have lived in captivity is slated to open off the coast of Taranto, Italy, by mid-2026. This initiative addresses the increasing demand for re-homing as marine parks across Europe close due to rising animal welfare concerns. The San Paolo Dolphin Refuge, located in the Gulf of Taranto, will provide a unique, natural yet supervised environment for these animals.

Despite its proximity to the industrially significant city of Taranto, the chosen site has undergone improvements to ensure animal health and safety. The facility boasts a main enclosure, a smaller transfer enclosure, quarantine facilities, a floating laboratory, and staff accommodation. Advanced surveillance and sensor systems will monitor the dolphins' well-being. The project, supported by private donors and European public funds, aims to house a carefully selected group of dolphins.

This pioneering refuge has the capacity for up to 17 dolphins, though the initial focus will be on a smaller group with ideal medical, behavioral, and social conditions. As countries like Canada and France ban dolphin capture, and more parks close, the need for sanctuaries like San Paolo is becoming critical. This model, if successful, could be replicated across Europe to house the estimated 60 dolphins currently in captivity.