A bankruptcy filing has emerged from the operator of various marine parks and aquariums. The company is seeking court permission to sell hundreds of animals after a string of dolphin deaths at a Florida location led to its closure and prompted multiple investigations.
This organization, which manages over 30 parks across eight countries, cited “limited liquidity” and “very high” costs associated with caring for dolphins, sea lions, manatees, and other marine creatures in its application to the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Delaware.
Additionally, the company plans to sell part of its real estate as it engages in Chapter 11 restructuring, a process that began back in March.
In light of the dolphin deaths, inspections by the USDA and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Board unveiled serious issues at the park, including degraded water quality, a malfunctioning filtration system, and chronic staffing shortages. These issues also contributed to delays in emergency responses, highlighting the poor visibility in the water.
Criminal investigations have since been initiated by state prosecutors and federal agencies. State Senator Jay Trumbull described the situation as “intrusive and unacceptable,” advocating for the removal of all remaining dolphins.
Among the deceased dolphins was Jet, who tragically died from blunt force trauma after hitting the bottom of his pool during a show. Others suffered from serious health conditions, with one dolphin found after difficulty eating and ingesting a foreign object. Following these incidents, five dolphins died within a short span.
The company, as per its bankruptcy documents, houses around 2,400 animals, including 295 dolphins, 51 sea lions, and 18 manatees. Many of these creatures serve as collateral for debts exceeding $100 million. Interestingly, the market value of dolphins can vary widely, with prices reaching up to $150,000 for trained individuals prepared for public performances.
After the Gulf World closure, 11 remaining dolphins were relocated, with four moving to Clearwater Marine Aquarium and seven to Marineland in St. Augustine, Florida.
The company’s financial issues have revealed some internal strife. Former CEO Eduardo Alber, who once guided the company’s growth, lost control following a significant default on a $100 million debt. Recent court rulings have accused him of hindering operational processes and misappropriating revenues from various parks.
This case continues to unfold as all eyes remain on the welfare of these marine animals and the future of the company.
