Protecting the Wild: Why Dolphin Project Matters

When we spend time at sea — sailing along coastlines, anchoring near quiet coves, or watching dolphins surface beside the hull — it’s easy to feel connected to marine life. But beneath the surface, much of this beauty is under threat. One organization working tirelessly to protect it is Dolphin Project — and we believe their mission is worth sharing.

Who They Are

Founded in 1970 by former dolphin trainer turned activist Ric O’Barry, Dolphin Project is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the welfare and protection of dolphins around the world. What makes them stand out is their unwavering focus on ending dolphin captivity and exposing the global trade in captive marine mammals.

O’Barry famously worked on the TV series Flipper, and it was through that experience — and the loss of one of the dolphins — that he came to question the entire industry. Since then, he’s spent decades working on behalf of the very animals he once trained.

What They Do

Dolphin Project’s work is multifaceted. They:

• Investigate and expose the capture and exploitation of dolphins, particularly in places like Taiji, Japan, where the annual dolphin hunts have received global attention.

• Campaign against dolphin shows, swim-with-dolphin programs, and aquariums that keep dolphins in captivity under the guise of education or entertainment.

• Rescue and rehabilitate captive dolphins, helping them return to the wild when possible.

• Educate the public and support local efforts to develop sustainable, dolphin-safe economies.

  
  

Their work is hands-on, global, and deeply rooted in science, compassion, and advocacy.

What They’ve Accomplished

Over the years, Dolphin Project has had real, on-the-ground impact. A few highlights include:

• Shutting down the last traveling dolphin circus in Indonesia, a major step toward ending captive performances in the region.

• Establishing a dolphin sanctuary in Bali, the first of its kind in the world, where rescued dolphins can live in a protected natural environment.

• Helping free captive dolphins in South Korea, who were illegally caught and used for entertainment, and returning them to the sea.

• Raising international awareness of the Taiji dolphin drives through their presence in the documentary The Cove, which won an Academy Award.

  
  

These aren’t symbolic wins — they’re real, measurable changes in how dolphins are treated across the globe.

Why It Matters to the Yachting & Sailing Community

As people who spend time on the water, we are often lucky enough to witness dolphins in their natural environment — wild, curious, and free. That experience is profound and unforgettable. But it also reminds us: that’s where they belong.

Supporting Dolphin Project is about more than saying no to dolphin shows. It’s about choosing to respect the natural world and help shift the broader conversation around marine life — from exploitation to protection.

For boaters and ocean lovers, this mission hits close to home.

How You Can Help

Avoid aquariums and marine parks that keep dolphins in captivity.

• Follow and amplify Dolphin Project’s work on social media.

• Consider donating or supporting their campaigns, many of which fund on-the-ground efforts to stop captures or support rescues.

• Spread the word — especially to travelers and charter guests who might not be aware of the darker side of “interactive” animal tourism.

  
  

You can learn more about Dolphin Project at dolphinproject.com.

⚓ Closing Thoughts

At Sailoscope, we believe in celebrating life at sea — not just for humans, but for all who call the ocean home. Organizations like Dolphin Project remind us that even as we enjoy the freedom of the water, we have a role to play in protecting it.

Let’s keep the sea wild.