St Maarten

The Caribbean island of St. Maarten was involved in a long campaign, spearheaded by local people and organisations and support from international NGO's, to try to prevent a dolphinarium being developed on their island to satisfy the needs of large cruise companies. 4000 people on the island of St Maarten signed a petition opposing the dolphinarium.

In September 2006, the government halted the plans and needless to say, all involved were delighted to receive this news. The Marine Connection continues to work with local repersentatives to ensure that St Maarten retains its reputation as an ethical, sustainable, environmentally friendly, captive dolphin free, place to visit.

Colleagues in St Maarten have also submitted a draft ordinance with regulations that prohibit the use of animals for entertainment which the Marine Connection fully supports.

See the Marine Connection's letters of support:
Daily Herald - 25 September 2006
Today - 25 September 2006

Take Action

Please email the Lt. Governor of St. Maarten, F. E. Richards applauding the decision to halt the construction of the dolphinarium. Please also encourage the development of legislation which will prevent any further captive dolphin facility applications thereby ensuring St Maarten's future as a captive dolphin free zone.

Email Lt. Governor F. E. Richards here