Protests Erupt Outside Hyatt Hotels as Activists Demand Closure of Dolphinarium in Cancun

On Friday, September 26, 2025, coordinated protests took place outside three Hyatt hotels in the UK, led by organizations including Dolphin Freedom and VEELEAF. The demonstrators are calling on Hyatt to shut down its controversial dolphinarium at the Hyatt Ziva Cancun resort.

Background

The Hyatt Ziva Cancun dolphinarium has faced criticism for its treatment of marine mammals. Reports indicate that six dolphins are confined to a pool measuring approximately 30–40 feet across and 200 feet long, a space activists deem inadequate for the animals' well-being.

While recent legislation in Mexico prohibits breeding of dolphins, it does not necessarily close existing concrete tanks. Many facilities are finding legal loopholes to remain open, meaning the industry could continue for decades given the roughly 300 dolphins already in captivity. Activists also note that banning “dolphin shows” is largely symbolic in Mexico, since dolphin shows are virtually nonexistent; the main method of exploiting dolphins is through interactive activities, such as swimming with or touching the animals. Thus, prohibitions on shows do not address the core welfare concerns.

The Campaign

Dolphin Freedom and VEELEAF have been vocal in their opposition to captive dolphin exploitation. Following the closure of the Barceló dolphinarium in Quintana Roo due to welfare violations, these organizations have intensified their efforts, urging Hyatt to end its involvement in the dolphin entertainment industry.

Public Response

The protests have garnered attention from animal rights advocates and the public, with many expressing support for the closure of the Cancun dolphinarium. Activists argue that dolphins are highly intelligent and social creatures, and their confinement for entertainment purposes is unethical.

Hyatt's Position

As of now, Hyatt has not publicly responded to the demands. The company has faced pressure from various groups to reevaluate its practices concerning marine mammal entertainment. VEELEAF and Dolphin Freedom sent a letter to the CEO of Hyatt Hotels asking them to close the dolphin tank in Cancun. The letter was counter signed by Paul Watson Foundation, TideBreakers, Marea and Marine Connection.

Looking Ahead

The protests mark a significant moment in the ongoing debate over animal rights and the ethics of marine mammal captivity. While legislation represents a step forward, the continued presence of hundreds of captive dolphins and the use of legal loopholes could allow the industry to persist for decades. The focus on “banning shows” does little to curb the primary method of dolphin exploitation in Mexico—interactive programs—highlighting the need for more comprehensive reforms.

For more information on the campaign and how to get involved, visit Dolphin Freedom's official website.

SIGN THE PETITION https://www.change.org/p/cierre-al-delfinario-prisi%C3%B3n-del-hotel-hyatt