Authorities in Turkey's Aydın Province Cancel LGBT Cruise Stop in Kuşadası Port

The administration of Turkey’s Aydın province has announced the cancellation of a planned stop by the Scarlet Lady cruise ship at the port of Kuşadası. The vessel, owned by Virgin Voyages, was scheduled to dock on July 7, 2026, as part of the “Mediterranean Gay Cruise 2026” tour organized by Atlantis Events.

As reported by the Bianet publication, an official statement from the governor’s office said that the arrival of the specified group and the holding of such events in the province is “absolutely out of the question.” Authorities justified their decision by stating that the behavior of the cruise participants is “incompatible with the structure of society and moral values,” and that the event itself caused concern among various segments of the population.

At the same time, the administration emphasized that the cancellation of this voyage is an isolated case and will not affect the development of cruise tourism in the region, which continues to receive tourists from different countries.

Earlier, the Yeni Şafak newspaper reported a change in the ship’s route and the exclusion of Turkey from its program. In addition, by decision of the administration of Istanbul’s Beyoğlu district, the Tek Yön gay bar, which had planned to host a party for the liner’s passengers, was closed.