MARINELAND, Fla. — Renowned as the world’s first oceanarium, Marineland in Flagler County stands at a pivotal moment in its history.

Alarm bells are ringing among visitors and local advocates following the recent bankruptcy filing by its owner, Dolphin Company, which has cast doubt over the park’s continued operation.

During a visit on Monday morning, Gail Davis and her partner Dave Fallers, who had come from nearby Palm Coast, reflected on the significance of Marineland. Davis, who last visited nearly 15 years ago, described it as an integral part of Florida’s heritage. Meanwhile, Dave expressed a desire to see firsthand what remains of the attraction.

“I came to see what was left of the place, what animals are still here, if any remain,” Fallers remarked.

When Davis heard the news about the bankruptcy, she explained, “My first reaction was what was going to happen to the animals during this long process,” highlighting concerns about the dolphins and other marine life still at the park.

Opened in 1938, Marineland quickly became a Florida icon. 

During World War II, the U.S. Coast Guard used the site to train combat dogs and develop a shark repellent included in survival kits for pilots. 

Since the 1950s, it has operated as a public attraction, drawing tourists from across the region.

Drone footage captured by First Coast News Oct. 27 shows more than a dozen dolphins still swimming in Marineland’s tanks, a reminder of the park’s ongoing role in marine education and conservation.

Meanwhile, two petitions are gaining momentum, urging state officials to use conservation funds to acquire Marineland and protect it from potential residential or commercial development. 

Supporters emphasize preserving both the site’s historical significance and its ecological value. 

“I would love to see them restore it, keep it as Marineland. Have the kids come through for a class trip — I would much rather see it stay like that than become high-rise hotels or resorts,” Davis said.

First Coast News reached out to Marineland for comment; we haven’t heard a response as of this article’s publishing.