Three dolphins swimming in the vast open ocean. The surface of the water can be seen with sunrays shining through.

Help fund the first dolphin sanctuary in Europe

Two dolphins are swimming together in what looks like a wild environment. The water is clear and turquoise.

£10 could help purchase specific equipment to provide expert veterinary care to dolphins and other marine animals.

A World Animal Protection team member photographed from behind, wearing a black t-shirt with WAP's logo, overlooking a breath-taking landscape

£20 could help complete the development and furnishing of the rehabilitation complex on land.

Two dolphins swimming in the wild. The water looks smooth and both dolphins look like they're gliding through it.

£30 could help develop and purchase a special lifeboat for the transport of dolphins.

On the coast of the Greek island of Lipsi, work is underway on the very first shelter for ex-show dolphins in Europe. Hidden in a beautiful landscape of mountains and rocks lies a deserted bay that meets all the requirements for a healthy living environment for dolphins.

We are a partner of this special project. A dolphin sanctuary is desperately needed. There are currently more than 3,000 dolphins in captivity worldwide, including around 300 in Europe. The demand for an alternative for dolphins that currently live in dolphinariums is increasing.

Dolphins that have lived in captivity cannot simply be released into the sea. Their chance of survival in the wild is small, because they have do not have the crucial skills and knowledge to survive. However, these dolphins deserve to live in a natural environment with a large, ecologically rich space for swimming, diving and hunting. And of course, without shows or forced contact with people.

Our partner Aegean Marine Life Sanctuary (AMLS) is working hard on a real dolphin sanctuary on the Greek island of Lipsi.

An aerial photograph of a clear, turquoise-coloured body of water

The bay is in fact a multifunctional natural aquarium that can also function as a rehabilitation centre for other protected marine species. This includes seals and sea turtles, which are either injured and require treatment, or which cannot be returned to the wild due to injuries.

The bay is not ready yet. Currently, several things are still needed to prepare the bay for the arrival of dolphins and other marine animals. But with your support, the dolphin sanctuary can become fully operational.

We will use your donation where the need is greatest to protect animals, like those featured in this appeal, from cruelty and suffering.

Dolphin pod swimming in the wild

Become part of the community

Join thousands of animal lovers fighting to protect wildlife and give farmed animals good lives. Sign up now for emails with ways you can help.

Sign up now