In a devastating accident, six people have died following the sinking of a tourist submarine in Egypt's Red Sea. Local officials reported that the tragedy occurred around 10:00 AM local time, leading to a rescue operation that successfully saved 39 others aboard the vessel. The submarine reportedly encountered difficulties after hitting a reef, resulting in a loss of pressure.
Among the deceased are two married doctors, whose daughters are currently receiving treatment in a hospital. Additionally, reports from Tass, a state-owned Russian news agency, indicated that two of the victims were children. The Red Sea governor, Amr Hanafy, confirmed that all six victims were of Russian nationality, although detailed information about the victims has yet to be officially released.
The submarine, named Sindbad, was carrying passengers from various countries, including Russia, India, Norway, and Sweden. There were also five Egyptian crew members on board during the incident. Eyewitness accounts and unconfirmed reports suggest that the submarine was operating at a depth of approximately 20 meters (65 feet) when it struck the reef.
This incident marks the second serious event involving a tourist vessel in the Red Sea in recent months. In November, another tragic accident occurred when a boat capsized near Marsa Allam, resulting in 11 individuals being reported missing and presumed dead. Such incidents raise concerns about safety standards for tourist activities in this popular destination.
Dr. James Aldridge, a tourist from Bristol, shared his experience on the submarine during a trip in February 2025. He described the vessel as well-maintained and consistent with the promotional images, noting its fresh paint and modern equipment. He praised the attentive and professional English-speaking staff, including two divers who accompanied passengers on their descent.
Dr. Aldridge recounted a safety briefing provided in multiple languages, although he noted that life jackets were not distributed. During the 40-minute excursion, he felt secure, stating that the submarine navigated the reef carefully, never straying too close to dangerous areas.
An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the submarine's sinking is currently ongoing. The Association of Tour Operators of Russia has also referenced unconfirmed reports about the incident in a Telegram post, highlighting the need for thorough scrutiny into safety protocols for tourist submarines in the Red Sea.
The city of Hurghada, located southeast of Cairo, is a renowned tourist destination celebrated for its stunning beaches and vibrant coral reefs. This incident serves as a somber reminder of the potential risks associated with underwater tourism in this beautiful region.
