Keeping orcas, dolphins and other cetaceans in captivity for entertainment has come under intense scrutiny. The science on captive cetacean welfare points to significant compromises in quality of life.
The cognitive complexity of cetaceans makes captivity especially problematic. Their natural home ranges span hundreds of miles; even the largest aquarium tanks provide a fraction of needed space. Social disruption from separating family groups causes long-term psychological damage. The evidence strongly supports transitioning captive cetaceans to sea sanctuaries.