Another Dead Dolphin at Gulf World Marine Park

Updated June 4, 2025: Following public outcry regarding the dolphin deaths at Gulf World Marine Park, The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration told News Channel 7 that seven dolphins will be transferred to Marineland Dolphin Adventure — another Dolphin Company owned facility. In addition, four rough-toothed dolphins will be transferred to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium.*
*Source: WJHG News Channel 7 

Five dolphins have now died in just under eight months at Gulf World Marine Park in Panama City Beach, Florida.

On Wednesday, May 28, Florida State Senator Jay Trumbull posted the news on his Facebook page that another dolphin had died at the park. He called the death “part of a disturbing and unacceptable pattern” and demanded that “immediate action” be taken.

Florida State Senator Jay Trumbell Gulf World statement via Facebook post dated 5-28-25

Earlier this year, on March 27 under the direction of Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier, a search warrant was executed at the park. This was triggered by escalating concerns surrounding the deaths of four dolphins, along with allegedly deteriorating living conditions. On that same day, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and other agencies launched an investigation into the park.

Dolphin Project has repeatedly stated that the remaining dolphins at the facility need immediate attention to prevent future deaths. Now, the death toll is up to five dolphins, and still, Gulf World Marine Park had been operational. (The park has posted on their Facebook page that they will be closed for the remainder of the week, but will re-open on June 3.)

Empty the Tanks protest at Gulf World Marine Park. Credit: Katie Bashore

Gulf World Marine Park was founded in 1969 by a group of five local businessmen. The first dolphins to perform there were wild-caught from the Gulf of America (formerly the Gulf of Mexico). In 2015, the park was acquired by the Dolphin Discovery Group — under the umbrella of multinational corporation The Dolphin Company.

Related:

Gulf World Marine Park Under Investigation

Featured image: Gulf World Marine Park, Panama City Beach, Florida. Credit: Katie Bashore