In a scathing open letter, a coalition of high-profile celebrities and animal welfare advocates has called on TUI Group, one of Europe’s largest travel companies, to cease its involvement with captive dolphin entertainment. The move comes as part of a broader campaign by World Animal Protection to end the practice of using dolphins for human amusement in the tourism industry.
The letter, signed by notable figures including Alesha Dixon, Deborah Meaden, and Evanna Lynch, highlights the stark contrast between dolphins’ natural behaviours and the conditions they endure in captivity. Experts point out that while bottlenose dolphins can swim up to 100km daily in the wild, their captive counterparts are confined to concrete tanks a fraction of that size.
TUI Group, one of the world’s leading travel companies, is under increasing scrutiny for its continued promotion of captive wildlife attractions, a practice that critics argue is increasingly out of step with evolving public sentiment and industry trends. Several major travel companies, including easyJet Holidays, Jet2holidays, and Virgin Holidays, have distanced themselves from promoting such attractions in recent years. Furthermore, some countries and regions have even implemented outright bans on keeping cetaceans in captivity.
Industry Criticism
Tricia Croasdell, CEO of World Animal Protection, has been vocal in her criticism of TUI’s continued involvement in promoting captive wildlife shows. “The only reason [for TUI’s continued involvement] can be profit, and it is inexcusable for a multi-million-pound company to put profit before compassion,” she said, emphasizing the growing ethical concerns.
As the travel industry increasingly shifts towards more sustainable and ethical tourism practices, TUI Group’s stance appears increasingly isolated. Competitors have adapted to changing consumer preferences, favouring wildlife observation in natural habitats over shows featuring captive animals, such as dolphin performances.
A Crossroads for TUI Group
With mounting pressure to align with industry shifts, TUI Group faces a critical decision. The company must weigh the financial implications of discontinuing these controversial offerings against the potential reputational damage and ethical concerns raised by continuing to support captive dolphin shows.
This controversy highlights the ongoing tension between traditional tourism models and the evolving standards of animal welfare. As public awareness and pressure from animal rights groups increase, TUI Group’s next move will be closely watched by both industry observers and animal welfare advocates.
As the debate intensifies, the future of TUI’s involvement in wildlife attractions remains uncertain, but it is clear that the travel industry as a whole is moving towards a more compassionate approach to animal tourism.
