Dolphins and whales are highly complex, large-brained social mammals. To date, thousands are kept in concrete tanks in marine parks and aquariums around the world. A growing body of scientific data reveals that these animals cannot thrive under these circumstances – in fact, they experience chronic stress, illness, neurobehavioral abnormalities, and, sometimes, death. The recent loss of the orca Tokitae at Miami Seaquarium is a tragic example.

Almost all captive whales are born into the tanks and are not eligible for full release into the ocean. However, there is a growing global movement to provide an alternative to concrete tanks in the form of sanctuaries. Sanctuaries are large ocean enclosures where captive whales can feel the ocean for the first time in their lives and be free to explore a natural environment while under human care. There are sanctuaries for elephants, primates, big cats, and many other wild animals and whale and dolphin sanctuaries are now becoming a reality.

I will discuss the science behind the welfare of captive whales and the place, principles, and practices of an authentic whale and dolphin sanctuary. I will also present a description and photos of a seaside sanctuary for beluga whales and orcas being created by the Whale Sanctuary Project in Nova Scotia, its advisors, such as Jean-Michel Cousteau and Silvia Earle, and provide ways you can get involved.