The Whale Sanctuary Project

Who we are

The Whale Sanctuary Project is working to establish a model seaside sanctuary where cetaceans (whales and dolphins) can live in an environment that maximizes well-being and autonomy and is as close as possible to their natural habitat.

It is the first organization focused exclusively on creating seaside sanctuaries in North America for orcas and beluga whales who are being retired from entertainment facilities or have been rescued from the ocean and need rehabilitation or permanent care.

Why a seaside sanctuary for whales

While there are sanctuaries for many land animals who are being retired from zoos and circuses, there are none yet for whales and dolphins. Without permanent sanctuaries, they will be confined to concrete tanks for the next 30–40 years, or as long as they live.