Florida Keys community members came together on Sept. 1 for the grand opening and ribbon-cutting of the region’s only whale and dolphin rehabilitation facility, Dolphin Life Hospital, in Islamorada.
What began as the “Labor Day of Love” celebration quickly turned into a history-making moment with the unveiling of a new identity for Dolphin Life, formerly known as Dolphins Plus Marine Mammal Responder. With two facilities in the Keys — Dolphin Life Hospital in Islamorada and Dolphin Life Key Largo — the organization provides rescue, rehabilitation and permanent sanctuary for non-releasable dolphins.
Minutes before the ribbon was cut, Hunter Kinney, chief officer of innovation, revealed the rebrand to officials, business leaders and community supporters. As the banner dropped, cheers and applause filled the air.
“Our rebrand brings clarity and awareness to our mission” Kinney said. “Dolphin Life is about improving the lives of whales and dolphins both in our care — and in the wild.”
“With three dolphin facilities within two miles, the community was confused. This rebrand makes clear that Dolphin Life is a nonprofit, independent organization and highlights our commitment to improving dolphin lives,” said Art Cooper, who has been involved since 1990.
At the heart of Dolphin Life Hospital is a 56,000-gallon saltwater ICU habitat, designed for sick, injured and orphaned dolphins and whales. Nancy Cooper, president of Dolphin Life, said construction is nearly complete, with the final fiberglass panel set for installation this month. Once the tank is filled and inspected by the National Marine Fisheries Service, the hospital will be licensed and ready to provide care.
“We hope this tank never needs to be used,” Cooper said. “But if it does, we’ll be ready.”
Guests can now explore a 2,000-square-foot space filled with aquariums, touch pools and hands-on exhibits. The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with guided tours offered throughout the day.
A new Backlot Rescue Tour runs daily at 11a.m. and 2:30 p.m., with behind-the-scenes access to the hospital’s inner workings and admission to Dolphin Life Key Largo.
The Key Largo facility remains home to six non-releasable dolphins. Programs there have been redesigned with smaller groups and more intimate interactions.
Dolphin Life also launched a new lifestyle brand on Monday. Apparel and gifts are now available through the Dolphin Life Store, with proceeds supporting the high cost of marine mammal care and rehabilitation.
Monroe County residents receive free admission to Dolphin Life Hospital in Islamorada and Dolphin Life Key Largo through September. Discounted rates are also available for interactive dolphin programs with code DolphinLifeLocal.More information is at dolphinlife.org.
