Ric O'Barry's Dolphin Project partners with The Parkside Hotel & Eagle Wing Tours

The Parkside Hotel & Spa is proud to partner with Eagle Wing Tours and Dolphin Project this October to host an exclusive fundraising weekend with world-renowned dolphin conservationist Richard "Ric" O'Barry.

On Friday, October 17, experience an inspiring evening at The Parkside Hotel & Spa, featuring a presentation and Q&A with Ric O'Barry and the Dolphin Project team on their global rescue and rehabilitation work - including the groundbreaking Bali sanctuary. Then, on October 18 & 19, take part in intimate whale-watching tours with O’Barry and Eagle Wing Tours’ co-owner, Brett Soberg, as you explore the coastal waters in search of marine wildlife. With just 50 spots per excursion, these experiences are truly one-of-a-kind.

An Evening with Ric O'Barry

Located in the Urban Ballroom at The Parkside Hotel & Spa
October 17, 2025 - 6:30 pm

Spend an inspiring evening with Ric O’Barry and members of Dolphin Project's team! Hear first hand about their ongoing campaigns to protect dolphins through talks and presentations, then dive into a moderated Q&A with Ric himself. We’ll wrap up the night with a relaxed canapé reception, the perfect chance to mingle with the team and fellow dolphin advocates.

This evening kicks off the exclusive three-day fundraising weekend, including two whale watching excursions with Eagle Wing Tours, with all proceeds directly supporting Dolphin Project's rescue and rehabilitation work worldwide.

Be part of the change.

RESERVE YOUR TICKET

Eagle Wing Tours with Ric O'Barry

Join special expert guest, Ric O’Barry, his team at Dolphin Project, and the Eagle Wing Tours team for an exclusive, educational, and eco-friendly adventure off the coast of Victoria, on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada.

This comprehensive whale and wildlife watching tour introduces guests to the Salish Sea and its incredible marine life, including whales, seals, sea lions and birds. Join Eagle Wing Tours for both a great cause and a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Tour Details:

Step aboard one of Eagle Wing Tours' state-of-the-art catamarans—4 Ever Wild or Wild 4 Whales (vessel TBD)—for an unforgettable marine adventure.
5+ hours of breathtaking wildlife encounters, guided by our expert naturalists
Exclusive tour dates: Saturday, October 18th & Sunday, October 19th
Departure: 8:30 AM sharp
Small-group experience: Limited to just 50 guests per tour
Complimentary keepsakes: Professional photo package + a limited-edition T-shirt

The best part? All proceeds from this tour, excluding the wildlife fee and fuel surcharge, will be donated directly to Dolphin Project. This way, you can join a vital mission that works to protect dolphins and their habitats worldwide. This five-hour-plus tour is your chance to make a tangible difference and create an unforgettable memory in the process.

Tickets will go fast!

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About Ric O'Barry

From Dolphin Trainer, To Dolphin Defender

In the 1960s, O’Barry was employed by the Miami Seaquarium, where he captured and trained dolphins, including the five dolphins who played the role of Flipper in the popular American TV series of the same name. He also trained Hugo, the first orca kept in captivity east of the Mississippi. When Kathy, the dolphin who played Flipper most of the time died in his arms, O’Barry realized that capturing dolphins and training them to perform silly tricks is simply wrong. From that moment on, O’Barry knew what he must do with his life.

On the first Earth Day, 1970, he launched a searing campaign against the multi-billion dollar dolphin captivity industry, and the Dolphin Project was born.

A Group Of Dolphins Swimming In The Water

Dolphin Project

Dolphin Project is a non-profit charitable organization, dedicated to the welfare and protection of dolphins worldwide. Founded by Richard (Ric) O’Barry on Earth Day, April 22, 1970, the organization aims to educate the public about captivity and, where feasible, retire and/or release captive dolphins.

The mission of Dolphin Project is to end dolphin exploitation and slaughter, as dolphins are routinely captured, harassed, slaughtered and sold into captivity around the world – all in the name of profit. Dolphin Project works not only to halt these slaughters, but also to rehabilitate captive dolphins for retirement and/or release, investigate and advocate for economic alternatives to dolphin slaughter, and to put a permanent end to dolphin captivity.

Learn More