France Nears Landmark Deal for Orca Relocation

As of February 17, 2026, the French government is narrowing its focus on the Whale Sanctuary Project (WSP) in Port Hilford, Nova Scotia, as the primary destination for the country’s last two captive orcas, Wikie and Keijo.

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Following a high-level meeting in Paris yesterday, officials are reportedly vetting the site’s readiness to ensure it can handle the transition from a concrete tank to a 40-hectare seaside refuge.

The Breakdown

• The Clock is Ticking: Under the 2021 animal welfare law, Marineland Antibes must end its cetacean captive programs by December 2026.
• The Nova Scotia Edge: Unlike a simple transfer to another aquarium (a move the French public has heavily protested), the Nova Scotia proposal offers a “semi-wild” retirement, allowing the whales to experience natural tides and sea life while still receiving human care.
• The Hurdles: The site is still under development. The French government is seeking guarantees that the sanctuary will be operational and fully funded before they commit to the flight.

Why This Matters

This isn’t just about moving whales; it’s a massive precedent. If successful, France becomes the first major nation to utilize a seaside sanctuary to meet its ban on captivity, potentially setting the blueprint for the rest of Europe.