Cruise carrying thousands of LGBTQ+ passengers denied entry to Turkey

A cruise ship carrying thousands of LGBTQ+ passengers and Broadway singer Patti LuPone was denied entry into Turkey. Local officials stated that the passengers' behavior did not align with the country's societal structure and moral values. The Virgin Voyages' Scarlet Lady cruise, operated by Atlantis, was en route to Turkey from Athens.

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Unfortunately, we have been informed by the Turkish authorities that Atlantis will not be permitted to dock in Kuşadası or Istanbul during this voyage.

Turkish authorities informed the cruise operator that the ship would not be permitted to dock in Kuşadası or Istanbul. Consequently, Atlantis had to adjust its itinerary, though other stops like Alexandria, Egypt, and the Greek island of Crete remain on schedule. The company's social media showcases passengers enjoying onboard activities, parties, and shows.

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I am shocked.

Atlantis Events president and CEO Rich Campbell noted that gay cruises have docked in Turkey 13 times over the past 25 years without issue. However, Turkish authorities claimed the cruise's presence caused "great discomfort in various segments of our society." They explicitly stated it was "out of the question for the said group to come to our province with an organization of the specified nature."

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The Atlantis cruise I am performing on next week has been banned from entering Turkey. A ship, a magnificent ship full of gay men, and me. Denied entry to Turkey simply because of who is on board.

Patti LuPone, who was performing on the ship, expressed her shock and fury on Instagram. She stated that the ship was denied entry simply because of who was on board. Despite the ban, LuPone confirmed she would still perform for the passengers on the adjusted itinerary, emphasizing that the men on the cruise deserve better.

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It’s pretty stunning, to be honest. I mean, and the reasoning behind it is that it’s a gay group. It’s very concerning to me when a country decides they can pick and choose which tourists are allowed.