Carnival Glory seven nights Drag Queen-themed cruise sparked controversy and change of mind by Carnival Cruise Lines. Six days before setting sail passengers were informed that no one outside of performers on stage would be allowed to be in drag.
Official response from Carnival come after the fans of Carnival’s Facebook page criticized the cruise line for allowing the Drag Queen’s to walk around the ship, commenting that this could be “dangerous” for children on board.
“Guests are not allowed to dress in drag for the performances or in public areas at any time during the cruise,” was written by Vicky Rey, Carnival’s vice president of guest services, sent out to passengers on Nov. 26.
“Arrangements have been made for drag performances in the main theater featuring stars from LOGO TV. These functions will be private and only the performers are permitted to dress in drag while in the theater.”
The statement says that any passenger who violates Carnival’s policies and/or whose behavior affects the comfort and enjoyment of guests, will be disembarked at their own expense and no refund will be given.
The company's President and CEO swiftly reneged on the email after angry passengers took to gay holiday company Al and Chuck's Travel's Facebook page and cruise sites, saying the policy was going to be lifted, allowing anyone to be dressed in drag while on board.
“… Anyone who wishes to dress in drag may do so,” he wrote.
Gerry Cahill said: “Given this misunderstanding, anyone on this cruise who wishes to cancel for any reason may do so and will receive a full refund of their cruise fare, as well as reimbursement for any non-refundable travel related expenses.”
Executive director for the National Center for Transgender Equality Mara Keisling, , said
“They’re not going to stop a woman dressed in a suit and a tie, but the notion that males and females have to dress a certain way and if not it’s a costume is silly,” she said. “Drag is a form a trans – a temporary way to not conform to a gender. Trans people deserve to be treated fairly and respected wherever they are.”
