Dolphin Tale 2

Sawyer has become an integral part of the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, training new volunteers in the modernized facility. His dedication to the aquarium reflects his commitment to marine life and the rescue work that has defined his character.

A new dolphin named Mandy is rescued by the Clearwater Marine Aquarium after being stranded on the beach. Unfortunately, she arrives with severe sunburn and respiratory issues, prompting the aquarium staff to begin an intensive rehabilitation process.

Savannah, another dolphin at the aquarium, shares a special bond with Winter but is nearing the end of her life at around 40 years old. This emotional connection deepens Winter's actions as she begins to show concern for Savannah's well-being.

Sawyer is presented with the chance to join an elite Semester at Sea program, which is very competitive and only allows one high school student to participate each year. Despite his family's excitement, Sawyer hesitates, feeling torn about leaving Winter behind.

Tragedy strikes when Savannah is found dead in her tank, plunging the staff at CMA into grief. Winter, heartbroken over the loss, shows distressing behavior, refusing to eat or accept her prosthetic tail as the staff races to comfort her.

An inspector from the USDA issues a violation for keeping Winter isolated, mandating that she be paired with another female dolphin. The team hopes that Mandy, who is successfully rehabilitated, will be the perfect companion for Winter.

Hazel, Dr. Clay's daughter, passionately opposes the decision to return Mandy to the ocean, reinforcing the need for the dolphins to remain together. Her emotional stance highlights the conflict between rehabilitation and release at the CMA.

To celebrate Sawyer's nomination for the Semester at Sea program, his mother throws a party in hopes of encouraging him. However, the celebration is interrupted by a call about a juvenile dolphin named Hope that desperately needs rescue.

The arrival of Hope, the juvenile female dolphin, brings new urgency to CMA. Dr. Clay and his team prepare to welcome her, stirring excitement among the staff and establishing a new challenge for Winter, who is in need of companionship.

In a lighter subplot, the team at CMA rescues a sea turtle entangled in fishing lines. This provides a humorous distraction, especially with the curious pelican, Rufus, who unexpectedly bonds with the turtle during its recovery.

With the arrival of Hope, Winter's rehabilitation enters a critical phase. Thanks to a prosthetic tail developed by Dr. McCarthy, Winter gains the ability to swim freely alongside Hope, transforming her social interactions and quality of life.

Reinvigorated by Winter's renewed spirit, Sawyer ultimately decides to join the Semester at Sea program. As he prepares to leave, it becomes a bittersweet moment for both him and Winter, marking a significant transition in their relationship.

As Sawyer departs for his program, Hazel releases balloons in a touching farewell gesture. This moment symbolizes the strong bonds formed at CMA and the enduring connections between the dolphins and their human companions.

The film concludes with a cameo appearance from surfer Bethany Hamilton, who stands in solidarity with Winter’s journey. This final moment emphasizes the overarching theme of resilience and the power of support from loved ones.