Could This Gay Cruise Have Visited More Homophobic Countries?!

Last week, we reported on Turkey's controversial decision to refuse entry to an LGBTQ+ charter cruise aboard Virgin Voyages' Scarlet Lady. We made our position very clear, we believe nobody should be turned away because of who they are or who they love.

Just days later, Egypt also denied the same cruise entry, forcing yet another last-minute itinerary change.

In this episode of On Watch, we ask a question that surprisingly few people seem to be asking...

Why was an LGBTQ+ cruise visiting Turkey and Egypt in the first place?

Atlantis Events has built its reputation over more than three decades creating holidays specifically for LGBTQ+ travellers. So, should an itinerary have been planned around countries whose governments have well-documented records on LGBTQ+ rights? Was this simply unfortunate timing, or was it a foreseeable risk that should have been identified long before passengers stepped onboard?

We discuss the responsibility of cruise organisers, the balance between respecting different cultures and protecting guests, and whether where we choose to spend our money says something about our own values.

As always, this video reflects our personal opinions, alongside the publicly reported facts surrounding the story. We welcome respectful debate and would love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.

What do you think?

⚓ Should Atlantis have planned this itinerary in the first place?
⚓ Should LGBTQ+ charter cruises avoid destinations whose governments have restrictive LGBTQ+ policies?
⚓ Or were the decisions by Turkey and Egypt impossible to predict?

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This video was proudly edited by @TravellingLightLisa

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