Patti LuPone Condemns Turkey After LGBTQ+ Cruise Is Barred From Docking

Patti LuPone has criticized Turkey after authorities barred an LGBTQ+ cruise from docking at two planned ports.

The Scarlet Lady, operated for Atlantis Events, was due to stop in Istanbul and Kuşadası during an 11-day Mediterranean cruise departing Greece. Turkish officials denied the ship entry, saying the cruise was associated with behavior that conflicts with the country's "moral values" and "family values."

LuPone, who is performing on the cruise, said on Instagram that she was "shocked" and "furious" by the decision. She said the passengers "deserve so much better" and confirmed she would continue with the voyage.

Atlantis Events CEO Rich Campbell said it was the first time the company had been refused entry to a destination because of its LGBTQ+ guests. He said the company is not political and that its passengers travel to enjoy local attractions and respect the cultures they visit.

The cruise will now skip Turkey and instead visit Cairo, Egypt, and the Greek island of Crete. Turkey has faced criticism in recent years for increasing restrictions on LGBTQ+ rights, including banning Pride marches for the past decade.