A tribute to one of the world’s most beloved dolphins opens to guests this week
Clearwater, Florida. (June 24, 2025) — Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA) is proud to announce the opening of “Tales of Winter the Dolphin,” a touching new exhibit dedicated to the extraordinary life and legacy of Winter the Dolphin. Opening this week, this immersive experience invites guests to reflect on Winter’s story of survival, resilience, and inspiration that has touched millions around the world.
The exhibit follows Winter’s life from her rescue and the loss of her tail to the invention of her groundbreaking prosthetic. Visitors can view a life-sized replica of the crab trap that entangled Winter, explore realistic prosthetic tail models, and learn how innovation and science came together to support her recovery.
The room also holds many props from the movie, including an animatronic dolphin, Sawyer’s wetsuit and other clothing worn by CMA staff in the film.
“Winter’s journey captivated hearts across the globe and helped define who we are as an organization,” said Joe Handy, CEO of Clearwater Marine Aquarium. “She wasn’t just a dolphin — she was a symbol of hope. This exhibit is our way of honoring her spirit and the countless lives she changed, and we’re excited to share that legacy with new generations of visitors.”
Winter’s inspirational life story gained international attention through the blockbuster films Dolphin Tale and Dolphin Tale 2. Her story continues to make a difference today through CMA’s Inspire Program, which supports children, adults, and veterans facing physical and emotional challenges.
“Through her story of courage and bravery, Winter inspired millions of people to be strong and carry on,” said Kelly McAdams, PhD, Vice President of Conservation Education. “Thousands of children and adults, as well as veterans, have read about Winter and traveled to CMA because of her. Some were lucky enough to meet her in person.”
The display will also feature mementos from key moments in Winter’s life, highlighting her deep connection with the CMA team, including a driver’s license created for her 16th birthday and her favorite rubber duck.
The new exhibit is located inside the aquarium on the Fourth Floor of the Visitor’s Center.
In addition, Winter’s beautifully curated memorial garden, located just outside, is open for all guests to visit and reflect.
About Winter
Winter the Dolphin was rescued on December 10, 2005, after being found entangled in a crab trap line in Florida’s Mosquito Lagoon. Orphaned at just two months old and having lost her tail fluke due to her injuries, she was brought to Clearwater Marine Aquarium for long-term care. Winter learned to swim in her own unique way and later received a prosthetic tail, thanks to a collaboration with the Hanger Clinic. This innovation also led to the creation of WintersGel, now used in human prosthetic devices.
Winter passed away on November 11, 2021, at age 16 due to a gastrointestinal abnormality. Her legacy continues through CMA’s mission and programs that inspire hope and perseverance.Her story not only made CMA a household name but also brought a significant economic impact to the region. According to a study by Tourism Economics and the University of South Florida St. Petersburg College of Business, the Dolphin Tale movies generated an estimated $2 billion economic impact in Pinellas County between 2012 and 2015, supported more than 44,000 jobs, and brought millions of guests to Clearwater Marine Aquarium.
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Media Contact: Marsha Strickhouser | mstrickhouser@CMAquarium.org | (727) 242-0770
- About Clearwater Marine Aquarium
- Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit working marine rescue center dedicated to inspiring the human spirit through leadership in education, research, rescue, rehabilitation and release. With a mission to preserve the environment and its marine life, CMA is home to rescued dolphins, sea turtles, river otters, stingrays, a nurse shark and more. Through Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute, CMA conducts important global research focused on protecting manatees, North Atlantic right whales and sea turtles. Major motion picture Dolphin Tale (2011) and its sequel Dolphin Tale 2 (2014) features the true stories of rescued resident dolphins Winter and Hope, inspiring millions around the world. The mission and potential to change people’s lives differentiates Clearwater Marine Aquarium from any other aquarium in the world.
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We believe in preserving our environment while inspiring the human spirit through leadership in the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of marine life; environmental education; research; and conservation.
A Florida non-profit 501(c)(3) organization