A popular LGBTQ+ cruise sailing through the Mediterranean was denied entry into Turkey before also losing a scheduled stop in Egypt, leaving thousands of passengers — including many from South Florida — disappointed.
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The 10-day voyage aboard Virgin Voyages’ Scarlet Lady was advertised as a summer trip from Athens to Venice. The cruise is hosted by Atlantis Events, which describes itself as the world’s largest gay and lesbian vacation company.
Passengers said the trip is designed to provide a welcoming environment where LGBTQ+ travelers can celebrate and be themselves.
“It was a gift from my husband,” said Miami resident Thomas Barker, who was among those on board. “There are thousands of men who come to the ship to celebrate and to feel free to be who we are without any fear of homophobia or to be able to be ourselves in a public space.”
That sense of freedom was challenged when Turkish authorities denied the ship permission to dock.
According to a statement posted online by Turkish authorities and translated into English, officials said the cruise was chartered by a group “known for behavior that does not align with the values and moral standards of our society” and that allowing the event to take place was “absolutely out of the question.”
Barker said the decision was especially disappointing because many passengers were looking forward to visiting countries where LGBTQ+ people often face significant challenges.
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“I think what’s really disappointing is that we spent a lot of our times as gay people really trying to find safe spaces,” Barker said. “Going on this cruise is about as safe as it’s supposed to get.”
After being turned away from Turkey, the cruise itinerary was changed to include a stop in Egypt. However, passengers said that port call was also canceled at the last minute without an explanation.
“We thought that it would be a great opportunity for those people in those countries to also experience what it’s like outside of the rest of the world where people can be free and be celebrated for who they are,” Barker said.
In a statement, Atlantis Events said it hopes the situation is an isolated incident and that it will be able to return in the future. The company also said it hopes Turkey and Egypt will welcome all guests without conditions or prejudice.
“I think it’s definitely sort of taken a bit of the magic away,” Barker said. “It started off with such a high and everyone being so excited to be together and see people.”
Virgin Voyages also released a statement saying it has operated this itinerary before and was disappointed by the cancellations. The company said it is doing everything it can to ensure guests still have an incredible vacation.
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