Animal attractions and experiences can provide the opportunity to learn and appreciate different animal species and can support conservation efforts. However, when such animal attractions and experiences are not well managed, there is potential to harm the wellbeing of the animals involved, the wellbeing of the local community or the safety of those involved. Worldwide, the attitudes around excursions that offer encounters with animals vary significantly. To help us responsibly manage excursions involving animals, we have worked with industry experts, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and scientists. In addition, we have become members of the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA), which has developed specific guidelines for animals in tourism. We are also working with a third-party expert to audit the excursion providers with whom we work.
In 2018, we began auditing all dolphin-in-captivity tour encounters used by our brands.
