Marineland, a theme park in Niagara Falls, Ontario, is once again at the center of controversy. The company has warned that its remaining 30 beluga whales could be euthanized if Canada’s federal government does not approve their export to another facility.
In a recent letter to officials, Marineland said it is fully indebted and quickly running out of money. The park claims no sanctuary is ready to accommodate the whales and insists Chimelong Ocean Kingdom in China is the only facility with sufficient space.
Marineland of Canada's Long History of Controversy
This is not the first time Marineland has faced intense criticism. The marine theme park, which closed in 2024, has been accused of neglecting animals for decades. Its last orca, Kiska, died in 2023, sparking international outrage and renewed calls for closure.
According to Ontario’s Solicitor General’s Office, 19 belugas have died at Marineland since 2019. Inspectors have made more than 220 visits to the park since 2020, and the facility has been ordered to upgrade its water systems. Critics say this reflects systemic issues in care. Marineland has consistently denied wrongdoing.
The park’s financial troubles only deepened during the pandemic, when visitor numbers collapsed. By last year, Marineland placed its property on the market, leaving its collection of whales as the primary focus of public and government attention.
Animal Welfare Groups Push Back
Animal rights organizations have condemned the proposed export, urging Canada’s fisheries minister, Diane Lebouthillier, to reject it.
Advocates argue that a seaside sanctuary in Nova Scotia, designed for retired captive whales, would be a far more suitable option. While the sanctuary is not yet ready to accept Marineland’s animals, campaigners say Canada should support its completion rather than allow export to an overseas park.
A Decision With Global Consequences
For Marineland, the issue is framed as one of survival. The company says if the government blocks the transfer, it will be left without options to house or fund care for its whales. Opponents counter that euthanasia threats are being used as leverage to push through a controversial deal.
Canada banned the breeding and exhibition of cetaceans for entertainment in 2019, a landmark move applauded by welfare advocates.
Now, the decision over Marineland’s belugas will test how far that law reaches — and whether the country will allow its last large collection of captive whales to be shipped abroad.
Did you ever visit Marineland of Canada?
