Capital campaign advances to support sanctuary readiness as Whale Sanctuary Project engages French stakeholders on Marineland Antibes’ orcas
NOVA SCOTIA, CANADA [February 17, 2026] — The Whale Sanctuary Project (WSP) is set to enter the construction phase of its Nova Scotia ocean sanctuary, marking a major milestone as the organization transitions from planning to on-site implementation.
Pre-construction planning and mobilization activities are underway, including early technical coordination and readiness work to position the site for construction.
The Whale Sanctuary Project expects to begin construction when weather permits and proceed through a staged build plan toward an initial occupancy in the second half of 2026, with timing aligned to construction progress and capital. Staged milestones will prioritize site readiness, long-term sanctuary operations, and ensuring the facility is appropriately prepared to support the specific care requirements of whales received into sanctuary.
Initial work will focus on core site mobilization and essential marine and utility infrastructure, as WSP continues to advance its capital campaign and engage potential partners. The start of construction signals a clear shift from planning to physical build-out.
Each construction milestone brings the sanctuary measurably closer to being ready to safely welcome whales when transfer pathways are finalized.
“This is a milestone we’ve worked toward for years,” said Charles Vinick, Chief Executive Officer of the Whale Sanctuary Project. “A coastal sanctuary offers something fundamentally different: a safe, protected environment designed for lifelong care. Our focus now is building the infrastructure that makes a humane retirement possible for whales transitioning out of captivity.”
WSP Leadership in France as Discussions Continue on Future of Marineland Antibes’ Orcas
The French Ministry of Ecological Transition continues to view the Whale Sanctuary Project as the most credible, ethical, and welfare-focused option for Wikie and Keijo that meets French legal requirements.
The Whale Sanctuary Project is committed to supporting a responsible transition process that balances urgency with the preparation required to ensure a safe and successful outcome.
Ahead of any transfer, the whales will need to receive a thorough health assessment at Marineland Antibes by the Whale Sanctuary Project and independent veterinary experts before being prepared for a safe and successful transition to the sanctuary.
WSP looks forward to ongoing collaborating with the Government of France and Marineland Antibes for the welfare of Wikie and Keijo.
Fundraising Campaign Continues
The sanctuary’s fundraising campaign continues in parallel with this next phase of work, focused on securing the resources required to deliver a permanent, welfare-first sanctuary model for whales retired from captivity in aquariums and entertainment parks. Funds raised will support the infrastructure, animal care capacity, and long-term operational systems required to provide safe, lifelong care in a protected natural environment.
The campaign reflects a growing international shift away from cetacean entertainment and toward humane retirement solutions. As more governments and institutions confront the long-term future of whales currently held in marine parks, WSP is engaging philanthropic and institutional partners to help ensure a credible sanctuary option exists to support lawful, science-led transitions when opportunities arise. Early-stage capital commitments and active partner discussions are helping advance the project toward full funding.
The Whale Sanctuary Project remains confident in its ability to secure the funding required to deliver the sanctuary.
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About the Whale Sanctuary Project
The Whale Sanctuary Project is establishing a coastal sanctuary in Nova Scotia, Canada, to provide retired captive orcas and beluga whales with a safe, natural environment for lifelong care. WSP is building the infrastructure needed to support humane, legally compliant transitions out of captivity in aquariums and entertainment parks.
Media Contact:
Kari Vierimaa
Vierimaa Consulting Inc.
kari@vierimaaconsulting.com