Egypt and Turkey Deny Entry to LGBT Cruise Ship Amid Controversy
The LGBT community cruise ship Scarlet Lady, carrying about 2,000 passengers, was denied entry to Egypt just days after Turkey refused it docking rights at its ports. Passengers were informed on Thursday morning via a note slipped under their cabin doors that the ship urgently sought an alternative port. Rich Campbell, CEO of Atlantis Events, the tour company that chartered the ship, expressed disappointment, noting that last year a similar itinerary faced no issues. Egypt provided no official explanation for the refusal.
The cruise, a 10-day journey from Athens to Venice, had already altered its route after Turkey barred the ship from entering its territorial waters. Turkish authorities stated the ship was chartered by groups whose behavior conflicted with the country's social and moral values and cited significant public concern as the reason for the ban. Randy Slovacek, a passenger, remarked that in 36 years Atlantis Events had never faced such denials, now occurring twice within a week.
Kyle Olsen, owner of the LGBT tour company Hermes Holidays, suggested that Turkey's refusal likely influenced Egypt's decision and warned other countries might follow suit. He lamented the global trend of governments succumbing to right-wing pressures, resulting in LGBT rights being curtailed. Olsen also emphasized that government stances do not necessarily reflect citizens' attitudes, recalling warm receptions in Turkey and Egypt during previous visits.
The canceled Egyptian stop was expected to be a highlight, with many passengers having paid for private tours to the pyramids and museums. Following the cancellations, the ship rerouted to Chania, Crete, and planned to dock in Montenegro next. Campbell called Turkey's decision "amazing" and confirmed that despite efforts, including U.S. embassy involvement, the ban remained. Actress and singer Patti LuPone, performing on the ship, expressed anger on social media but affirmed her commitment to continue the voyage and perform for the passengers, who she said deserved better treatment.
