LGBTQ+ Cruise Rescues Refugees Adrift at Sea

The ‘Brilliance of the Seas’ a Royal Caribbean ship rescued 11 refugees from the Gulf of Mexico on February 26th .  

The ship departed from New Orleans and was chartering an LGBTQ+ cruise, they were in the middle of a seven-night cruise when the captain spotted a small vessel that appeared to need help. 

The ship reportedly quickly turned around to rescue those in need, they were brought aboard in groups of three and given food, water, and medical attention.  

VACAYA, the LGBTQ+ company who organised the cruise said the guests collected dry clothing for the refugees.  

In a Facebook post VACAYA CEO Randle Roper said, “In my 22 years in the industry, I’ve never had such an emotional day.” 

He goes on to say “I’m so happy we were able to bring them onboard safely and provide medical care, dry clothes, food, and most importantly, water. It’s sad that some people have to put themselves through such trauma in hopes of finding a better life.”  

Speaking to The Advocate, Roper said “Two of the most reviled groups in America right now are the LGBTQ+ community and refugees. The fact that we were the ones lucky enough to help them it just feels really, really good.” 

The US Coast Guard is in the process of determining if those rescued will remain on the ship for the duration of the cruise or be taken ashore when the ship docks in Mexico.