At SeaWorld, orcas live in cramped concrete tanks. With no physical, mental, or emotional stimulation, they spend their days swimming in endless circles. Despite being fully aware of SeaWorld's cruel treatment of animals, travel company TUI – formerly known as Thomson Holidays – continues to sell tickets to the abusement park.
Over 40 orcas have died at SeaWorld’s parks from causes including severe trauma, intestinal gangrene, and chronic cardiovascular failure. And over 500 other dolphins and whales have also died after being used for entertainment at these sites.
Dolphins at SeaWorld are often housed in incompatible groups. Held for years on end in cramped tanks, they're unable to escape attacks from other frustrated, aggressive dolphins. They're used in cruel circus-style shows in which trainers urge them to perform demeaning and unnatural tricks for the crowds.
What You Can Do
The list of companies that have cut ties with marine parks continues to grow and includes Jet2holidays, easyJet holidays, Virgin Atlantic Holidays, British Airways Holidays, Club Med, Tripadvisor, Airbnb, and Booking.com.
When British Airways Holidays pledged to stop SeaWorld ticket sales, its Managing Director said, “Our customers tell us they have concerns about wild animals being kept in captivity, and increasingly see animal performances in particular as outdated.”