A passenger aboard an all-LGBTQ+ cruise has attributed the denial of docking in Turkey and Egypt to former President Donald Trump, suggesting that his administration emboldened anti-LGBTQ+ sentiments globally. The Virgin Voyages ship, named Scarlet Lady and chartered by Atlantis Events, was scheduled to visit the two countries as part of its itinerary through Greece, Croatia, and Italy.
Authorities in Turkey and Egypt reportedly refused entry, citing the presence of men engaged in "behaviors incompatible with the fabric of our society and our moral values." The passenger, who shared his views in a since-deleted social media video, expressed disappointment and a feeling that the world was moving backward, implying that the political climate under Trump had fostered such actions.
"You just can't help but feel that with this current administration, people around the world feel more emboldened to do these kinds of things," the passenger stated. He acknowledged that prejudice against LGBTQ+ individuals is not new in these regions but singled out the Trump administration as a factor.
Critics, however, derided the passenger's remarks online, labeling it "Trump Derangement Syndrome" and questioning the logic of blaming a former U.S. president for the decisions of sovereign nations with specific cultural and religious laws. Commentators pointed to the laws and social attitudes in Egypt and Turkey regarding homosexuality, noting that while not always illegal, same-sex relationships face social taboos and are subject to prosecution under morality laws.
In Turkey, although homosexuality is legal, the government under President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has adopted a more conservative stance on LGBTQ+ issues. In Egypt, while same-sex acts are not explicitly outlawed, authorities have prosecuted individuals under laws related to debauchery and public morality.
American singer and performer Todrick Hall, a headliner on the cruise, expressed his dismay at being turned away, calling it "disgusting and disappointing" not to be allowed to experience the local culture. Another passenger, TJ Taylor, emphasized the importance of choosing travel destinations that are accepting of LGBTQ+ individuals and highlighted the economic impact of such cruises, noting that the passengers contribute significantly to local economies through spending on tours, dining, and other activities.
A spokesperson for Virgin Voyages stated they were "incredibly disappointed" by the denial of entry and confirmed that the ship would proceed to Kotor, Montenegro, as an alternative port of call. The cruise line indicated its commitment to ensuring the charter guests still have a positive vacation experience.
The incident has sparked debate regarding the influence of U.S. political rhetoric on international perceptions and actions toward the LGBTQ+ community. Meanwhile, Trump has been described in some circles as one of the most gay-friendly presidents in U.S. history, with his administration appointing openly gay individuals to high-level positions, such as Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.