Turkey and Egypt Block LGBTQ+ Cruise Ship Scarlet Lady

Authorities in Turkey and Egypt denied entry to the Scarlet Lady, a Virgin Voyages ship carrying approximately 2,000 passengers on an LGBTQ-themed cruise chartered by Atlantis Events. The disruptions occurred during a voyage from Athens to Venice in July 2026.

Turkish officials first blocked planned stops in Kuşadası and Istanbul, stating the charter group was known for behaviors that do not align with the structure of their society and moral values. Following these bans, the itinerary was revised to include Alexandria, Egypt. Despite receiving prior approval, the ship was denied entry into Egyptian waters on July 9. The revocation occurred at the last minute, approximately four hours before the vessel was to pick up pilot and customs officers.

Rich Campbell, CEO of Atlantis Events, described the Egyptian decision as strange and sad, noting that a similar itinerary had been successfully operated the previous year without issue. The denials resulted in the cancellation of roughly 1,200 shore excursions, causing lost revenue for local operators. In response to the blocks, the vessel was rerouted to Chania and Souda on the island of Crete, Greece, before proceeding to Kotor, Montenegro.