Bruges (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Flanders plans to ban photos and touching of dolphins at Bruges Dolphinarium. Minister Ben Weyts said the rule aims to reduce stress, follow European standards. Boudewijn Seapark must build a pool by 2027; closure set for 2037.
As VRT News reported, authorities in Flanders are planning new rules that could stop visitors from taking photos or cuddling dolphins at the Bruges Dolphinarium. The decision is being discussed after concerns were raised about animal welfare and the ethical treatment of dolphins.
Flemish Minister for Animal Welfare Ben Weyts answered questions from MPs Gianna Werbrouck (Vooruit), Sofie Joosen (N-VA), and Nadia Naji (Groen) about current laws that still allow limited contact for “educational purposes.” He said the rule has been used too broadly and now gives the impression that dolphins are part of a show. “Dolphins are not cuddly toys,” Weyts said.
What changes will Flanders make to dolphin contact at Bruges park?
Animal rights groups have raised similar issues for years, saying that photo sessions and physical contact cause stress and change dolphins’ natural behaviour. If the ban goes ahead, the Bruges Dolphinarium will need to replace close-up visitor programs with observation-only sessions.
The Flemish Minister for Animal Welfare, Ben Weyts, is examining potential law changes to restrict contact with people at the dolphinarium in Bruges. Department officials said they could prepare amendments by this year if the review promotes contact restrictions.
This action would act as a temporary measure, until the closure of the dolphinarium, officially planned for 2073, a decision supported and provided funds by the Flemish government of the union. The Bruges dolphinarium is the only facility in Flanders that still houses dolphins.
As part of ongoing efforts to improve living conditions, Boudewijn Seapark, which manages the dolphinarium, has been directed to build an outdoor pool by 2027. The new pool is expected to provide dolphins with more space and a more natural environment. Authorities say the requirement will help meet European animal welfare standards and reduce the stress faced by the dolphins.
The Bruges Dolphinarium opened in 1980 and is the only place in Flanders with dolphins. Visitors could touch the animals and take photos for many years. Animal welfare concerns grew over time. On November 17, 2024, Minister Ben Weyts said close contact would be banned to follow European rules and reduce stress on the dolphins.
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