Batumi Dolphinarium

The Batumi Dolphinarium was founded in 1975; however, in the early 1990s, owing to the severe political and economic situation in the country, it ceased operations. After a hiatus of nearly 20 years, on the initiative of Batumi City Hall and with the support of the Cartu Charitable Foundation, an entirely new dolphinarium was opened, built to modern standards and with modern infrastructure.

The technical infrastructure of the Batumi Dolphinarium is designed to provide the conditions essential for the care and welfare of marine mammals, including water quality, temperature control, and filtration and purification systems.

Veterinary supervision and species-specific care are fully aligned with the core principles developed by the relevant organisations in Europe and the United States, which place particular emphasis on the animals’ physical health, social relationships, opportunities to express natural behaviour, and environmental welfare.

The dolphinarium hosts demonstration performances with a strong cognitive and educational component, giving visitors the opportunity to learn about the unique behavioural characteristics of marine mammals and their role in the marine ecosystem.

Particular attention is given to raising environmental awareness, deepening understanding of the importance of protecting marine biodiversity, and fostering a responsible attitude towards the natural environment.

The dolphinarium’s amphitheatre, used for educational demonstrations, accommodates 887 visitors. The facility is adapted for persons with disabilities.

The Batumi Dolphinarium is currently home to bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus). Bottlenose dolphins are distinguished by highly developed intellectual and social abilities, a strong capacity for learning and interaction, complex behavioural patterns, and diverse acoustic communication.

They are particularly characterised by their ability to echolocate, orienting themselves in their environment by means of sound signals, as well as by acute hearing, good vision, and tactile sensitivity. To communicate with one another, they use a variety of vocal signals and body movements.

The principal aim of the Batumi Dolphinarium is to introduce the public to these highly developed, social and sensitive marine mammals, to highlight their unique place in the natural world, and to foster respect, care and a sense of responsibility for their protection. Visiting the dolphinarium is therefore one way to gain a deeper appreciation of the importance of protecting their natural habitat.