Dolphin Aquarium Shut Down by Environmental Agency at Barceló Riviera Maya Hotel

The Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (Profepa) has suspended operations at the dolphin aquarium situated within the Barceló Riviera Maya Hotel. The Ministry of the Environment declared that the aquarium was operating without the necessary authorization from the Ministry of the Environment and Natural Resources (Semarnat).

While the hotel will continue to operate as usual, the aquarium has been prohibited from hosting any dolphin shows or acrobatic displays. These activities are not included in the aquarium's management plan.

The decision to suspend the aquarium's operations followed a thorough inspection by Profepa staff. This inspection was initiated after a video circulated on social media showing a dolphin striking a concrete structure within the aquarium.

The suspension is one of several actions taken by Profepa in response to concerns about the aquarium. This follows the deaths of two dolphins, Alex and Plata, at the facility in 2024.

Mariana Boy Tamborrell, the head of Profepa, reiterated the agency's dedication to ensuring the humane treatment of captive wildlife. She stated, "This is the first action we've taken in response to our investigation's findings. Our inspection is ongoing, and we will regularly report on our progress and any additional measures taken as we uncover further irregularities."

In closing, Tamborrell announced that inspections will be conducted at all dolphin aquariums across the country to ensure the welfare of the animals.