Our Journey So Far: Seven Years of Learning, Progress and Putting Welfare First
2019 | A New Beginning
In June 2019, Little Grey and Little White completed their extraordinary journey from China to their new home in Iceland, marking the beginning of an ambitious and pioneering sanctuary project.
Following their arrival, the whales settled into their purpose-built care facility on Heimaey, where our experienced animal care team focused on helping them adjust to their new surroundings.
Rather than training performance behaviours, our priority became enrichment, choice and holistic wellbeing, allowing the whales to begin experiencing life very differently from the one they had known.
What we learned
The whales adapted remarkably well following transport, giving us confidence that patient, welfare-led care would form the foundation for everything that followed.
2020 | First Experiences in the Bay
Discovering a Natural Environment
For the first time in their lives, Little Grey and Little White entered Klettsvík Bay. Here they experienced natural seawater, ocean currents, changing depths and local wildlife; sensations they had never encountered while living in an aquarium.These first managed swims were hugely encouraging, but they also highlighted areas where the whales needed more time to develop. Building strength, stamina and confidence in a natural environment would be essential before spending extended periods in the bay.
What we learned
Successful rehabilitation isn't just about physical fitness. Confidence, curiosity and learning how to navigate a changing environment are equally important.
2021 | Introducing the Halo Habitat
Building Confidence Step by Step
To support the whales' gradual transition, we developed an innovative intermediate habitat within the bay. Known as the Halo Habitat, it provided access from the surface to the seabed while allowing our animal care and veterinary teams to continue providing close support when needed.
Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, this important addition gave the whales greater opportunities to explore their environment at their own pace.
What we learned
Gradual transitions create lasting confidence. We also learned that working in Iceland's unique environment requires resilient infrastructure capable of withstanding challenging weather conditions.
2022 | Adapting Our Plans
Progress Over Deadlines
Although the whales remained healthy and continued to make progress, they had not yet developed the stamina needed for full-time life in the bay. At the same time, two unexpected events, the sinking of a contractor's boat and a fuel leak in the bay, meant that plans needed to change.
Rather than rushing ahead, we extended the acclimatisation programme, strengthened the whales' conditioning routines and expanded our international advisory group to bring together even more specialist expertise.
What we learned
The best welfare decisions are not always the fastest ones. Patience, flexibility and collaboration with leading experts produce the strongest long-term outcomes.
2023 | Refining the Sanctuary
Welfare Before Timelines
The whales returned to the bay in late spring, but an extended period of severe weather created conditions that raised welfare concerns. Following their return to the natural surroundings of their outdoor sea pools in April, it was observed by the animal care team that Little Grey’s appetite was decreasing. Working alongside our expert veterinary team and advisors, immediate action was taken to ensure the whales’ health and welfare remained a top priority.
In keeping with our welfare-first philosophy, the decision was made to move Little Grey and Little White back to their indoor care pool, where they could continue conditioning in a safe and controlled environment.
Although disappointing, this experience highlighted important opportunities to improve the sanctuary, including new lifting equipment and additional sheltered working areas.
What we learned
When welfare and timelines conflict, welfare wins every time. Every experience, even setbacks, helps us improve the sanctuary for the future.
2024 | Investing in the Future
Strengthening the Sanctuary
Throughout 2024, major improvements were made to the bay facilities.
New veterinary spaces, animal care areas and operational infrastructure were designed and built to better support both the whales and the teams caring for them.
Regular health assessments throughout the year confirmed that Little Grey and Little White remained in excellent condition.
What we learned
Preparing for long-term success means investing not only in the animals, but also in the people, facilities and systems that support them.
2025 | Preparing for the Next Chapter
Ready for the Future
As preparations continue, every aspect of the sanctuary is being refined to ensure the safest possible environment for Little Grey and Little White.
We are always learning, improving and setting the highest industry standard of care for others to build upon. The adaptations we made and will continue to make this year to the sanctuary, are designed to support the whales’ gradual acclimatisation to the bay environment, in line with their Little Steps programme.
Alongside these improvements, our dedicated teams continue to rehearse every stage of the transition process, refine monitoring protocols and trial new systems, including an innovative baffle designed to improve environmental conditions.
At the same time, Little Grey and Little White continue progressive conditioning programmes that build their strength, endurance and confidence, while independent welfare specialists regularly review their progress and provide expert guidance.