Global win for dolphins as Dertour stops selling captive dolphin shows

One of the largest travel companies in Europe, Dertour, has announced it will stop selling tickets to venues that exploit dolphins in captivity. This development adds to a growing global shift away from wildlife entertainment and towards responsible tourism.

We welcome this decision and urge other international travel brands to follow Dertour in committing to a future where wild animals remain in the wild.

A win for dolphins

Dertour's commitment means that holidaymakers booking through its brands will no longer be offered harmful dolphin shows or swim with dolphin experiences.

These attractions rely on keeping highly intelligent, social animals in barren, artificial conditions that cannot meet their physical or psychological needs.

Dolphins in captivity are denied the freedom to dive deep, roam long distances, form natural family groups and live in the ocean where they belong.

Captive facilities often involve stressful training, forced interactions with visitors, and a lifetime of confinement in concrete tanks or small sea pens.

As stated on their website, Dertour will now focus on respectful wildlife observation and support conservation efforts.

Responsible Travel Trends

Dertour is joining a growing list of responsible travel companies that have stepped away from captive dolphin entertainment. Public support for ethical travel experiences will continue to rise as more travellers choose to see dolphins in the wild rather than in tanks.

We have been campaigning to end cruel captive dolphin attractions and promote genuine wildlife friendly alternatives that support animal welfare.

Travel companies such as TUI and GetYourGuide are still promoting venues that exploit and breed captive dolphins, despite evidence of suffering.

The dolphins exploited at these promoted venues have also been linked to the Taiji hunts, which sees dolphins routinely slaughtered every year.

Travel companies must follow

We applaud Dertour for taking responsible action. It is now time for every travel brand operating globally to match this commitment and protect wild animals.

By phasing out captive wildlife experiences and promoting ethical wildlife adventures, the travel industry plays a leading part in ending animal suffering and advancing responsible tourism worldwide.

Tell TUI to do better

How to support wildlife friendly tourism

Travellers can help create change by refusing to buy tickets to attractions that use wild animals for entertainment, and instead supporting experiences that allow animals to remain in their natural habitats.

Ethical wildlife tourism protects animals, supports local economies and creates meaningful travel opportunities rooted in respect for nature.

With continued public pressure and responsible leadership from the travel industry, wins such as this can become the global norm.