By July 22, 2026, Bertie Bott and Frankie, two beluga whales, arrived at SeaWorld San Antonio in Texas. Their new home is a 2-million-gallon saltwater pool. The whales’ journey involved an international move from a closed Canadian theme park. They traveled over 1,500 miles from Niagara Falls, Ontario.

Along with them, four other belugas were relocated to the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago. This move is part of a plan to relocate 28 belugas to U.S. aquariums. The process required nearly two years of coordination.

Steve Aible, SeaWorld San Antonio’s vice president of zoological operations, expressed his excitement about the whales’ arrival. He was one of 10 caretakers on the journey, which included transportation by trucks and a cargo plane. Aible shared the unique experience of flying with whales.

Veterinarians specializing in marine mammals were present to monitor the belugas’ health during the trip. Marineland, the whales’ former home, closed to the public in 2024. It did not have the resources to care for the animals. Without relocation or funding, Marineland considered euthanizing the whales.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration approved the move, citing the lack of adequate facilities in Canada for the whales’ care. Bertie and Frankie are thriving in their new environment, showing healthy behaviors and appetites.

“They’re going to have a more dynamic and exciting environment here,” Aible said. He clarified this was due to Marineland no longer operating, not due to any wrongdoing.

Caretakers will conduct regular medical assessments before introducing the belugas to the existing group of eight at the park. Another 11 belugas from Marineland will join them at SeaWorld San Antonio. Remaining whales will be relocated to aquariums in Georgia, Chicago, San Diego, and Spain.

“Tens of thousands of people will appreciate these animals,” Aible commented. “We look forward to sharing them with our visitors.”