Hurghada, Egypt – At least six people died and dozens were injured after a tourist submarine sank off the coast of Hurghada, a popular Red Sea resort town, Egyptian authorities confirmed on Thursday.
Victims and Rescue Efforts
The provincial governor, Amr Hanafi, said all six fatalities were Russian nationals. The remaining passengers 39 tourists and five Egyptian crew members were rescued, though 29 sustained injuries and were hospitalized.
Initial reports from the Russian Embassy in Egypt stated that all tourists on board were Russian. However, the governor later clarified that the passengers also included Indian, Norwegian, and Swedish citizens.
Details of the Accident
The submarine, named Sindbad, sank around 10 a.m. local time approximately 1,000 meters (0.6 miles) from shore. The cause remains under investigation.
Rescue teams responded swiftly, and authorities confirmed no one was missing, indicating all crew members were accounted for.
About the Submarine Operator
The Sindbad company, which operated the vessel, has been conducting underwater tours in Hurghada for years, offering 1-to-3-hour excursions to showcase marine life.
Hurghada: A Major Tourist Hub
Hurghada, located about 460 kilometers (285 miles) southeast of Cairo, is a top destination for diving and watersports, known for its vibrant coral reefs and rich aquatic biodiversity.
Egypt’s tourism sector, a critical part of the economy, employs around two million people and contributes 10% to the country’s GDP. However, regional conflicts have led some companies to suspend or limit Red Sea operations due to safety concerns.
Previous Incidents in the Red Sea
Accidents in the area are not uncommon. In November, a tourist yacht sank in the Red Sea after encountering rough waters, resulting in at least four deaths and 33 rescues.
Authorities continue to investigate the latest tragedy as questions arise over safety protocols for underwater tourism in the region.
