Canadian airlines discontinue SeaWorld partnerships

Posted | Contributed by Jeff

Air Canada and WestJet Airlines Ltd. are joining a growing wave of companies that have cut ties to SeaWorld, in sync with the spirit of a Canadian bill to ban whale and dolphin captivity and in the wake of concerns raised by animal rights advocates. Air Canada says its vacation wing stopped offering SeaWorld tickets for purchase on its website last week, calling the move a "commercial decision."

Read more from The Canadian Press via CTV News.

Anyone have a link to this new law? Wondering if it bans acquiring new whales and dolphins (Ontario has had that for years, which is why MarineLand only has one orca) or does it prohibit captivity altogether? In which case what happens to current animals in captivity?


But then again, what do I know?

Jeff's avatar

The next time the animals are heavily endangered, they'll all realize it's a stupid law.


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I didn't read this article but one I saw earlier this week said the ban was on breeding and importing.

According to this article, the captivity of whales, dolphins and porpoises will be banned.

https://us.whales.org/news/2018/10/bill-to-outlaw-captivity-of-whal...ian-senate

Article indicates that Marineland and the Vancouver are the two facilities that will be affected. Bill supposedly excludes rescues and sanctuaries.

Interesting that the airlines are using the law as something of an excuse but not really. Appear to be saying its a business decision but then why is the decision timed with the passing of the law?

Because it would be a poor decision business-wise to be associated is my guess. Almost like breaking the law.

So again, what happens to the critters in captivity? MarineLand currently has one orca, several dolphins, and a crapload of beluga whales. And yes, crapload is the technical term for a group of belugas.

Pretty sure this law would be the final nail in MarineLand’s coffin, especially with the owner & founder having passed recently.

Last edited by ShaneDenmark,

But then again, what do I know?

Dale K's avatar

I still can't believe how many people don't understand how much this helps the animals in the wild by learning from the ones in captivity (diseases, eating habits and so on). Add in the fact we learn about the animal's behavior and what not to do in the wild when you see that animal.

I am still shocked that they haven't started complaining about zoos a lot more but I have a feeling thats next on their radar.

Didn't know California had passed a law banning the breeding and entertainment performances of orcas in captivity. Apparently Florida is also working on passing such a law. Folks if you want your kids to see these amazing creatures, don't wait. These parks are either going to seriously change or go under. Either way your chances of ever seeing an orca will dramatically drop when they are gone from SeaWorld and MarineLand.


But then again, what do I know?

Dale K said:

I am still shocked that they haven't started complaining about zoos a lot more but I have a feeling thats next on their radar.

That's the common belief held by people in the zoo industry and it's already happening to some degree with elephants.


We ad these discussions out here in Frankfurt as the Zoo had Giraffs, I love the Zoo, but not sure if we really need Giraffs in a city zoo with limited space. I am conflicted about this issue


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Fun's avatar

bigboy said:

That's the common belief held by people in the zoo industry and it's already happening to some degree with elephants.

And I believe this is one of the reasons why you are seeing more Zoos diversify their product to include amusement rides.

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