Countless studies conducted by biologists have concluded that it is impossible to meet dolphins’ unique psychological and physiological needs in captivity. PETA also explains that dolphins who are held captive are often afforded little or no legal protections. Some live in small pools that are surrounded by jagged, rusty fences or are located near sewage outfalls, and others have suffered from untreated disease and starvation. Mexico recently enacted a moratorium on dolphin captures following one that left several animals bruised and bleeding and one dead. In Japan, dolphins are captured by driving entire pods ashore and slaughtering all but the few who are to be sold to amusement parks.
Besides the cruelty involved, swim-with-dolphins programs can also be dangerous to the public. Because they are ill-suited for captivity, dolphins can become agitated and aggressive from forced interaction with humans.
"Dolphins used in these programs are chased, frightened, and often injured before being forcibly taken from their families," says PETA Director Debbie Leahy. "Holland America Line Inc. would do well to follow Radisson Seven Seas Cruises’ footsteps by offering its guests the unobtrusive observation of wild dolphins and ending its swim-with-dolphins excursions, for the sake of both the dolphins and the public."
PETA’s letter has been sent to every cruise line that offers swim-with-dolphins programs.
