HURGHADA, EGYPT – Six Russians tragically lost their lives, and 39 foreign tourists were rescued after a viewing submarine named “Sindbad” sank off the coast of the Egyptian Red Sea resort of Hurghada, local authorities confirmed.
According to the Red Sea Governorate, the submarine had 50 people on board, including 45 tourists from Russia, India, Norway, and Sweden, along with five Egyptian crew members.
The Russian consulate in Hurghada reported, “Most of those on board were rescued and taken to their hotels and hospitals in Hurghada.”
The Sindbad submarine, designed for underwater tours, was equipped with large portholes for viewing the Red Sea’s vibrant coral reefs and marine life. It was capable of descending to a depth of 25 meters, according to the company’s website.
Egyptian authorities are currently investigating the incident, focusing on the crew members to determine the cause of the sinking. Red Sea Province Governor Amr Hanafy confirmed the submarine was licensed, and the crew captain held valid certifications.
The Red Sea region is a key destination for Egypt’s tourism industry, attracting travelers from around the world, including a growing number of Russian tourists. Egypt’s tourism sector, vital to the country’s economy, has faced challenges in the past, including militant attacks on tourists.
Recent incidents have raised concerns about marine safety in the region. Last June, a tourist boat capsized due to high waves, though no casualties were reported. In November, a diving boat carrying 31 tourists and 13 crew capsized, leaving 11 dead. Local media attributed the accident to rough seas.
The Tourism Ministry and the Chamber of Diving have not yet commented on the incident.
A recent United Nations report ranked Egypt as Africa’s top tourism earner in 2024, generating $14.1 billion in revenue—more than twice the income from Suez Canal tolls. The incident underscores the importance of robust safety measures to protect Egypt’s vital tourism industry.
Egyptian authorities are expected to release further details following the investigation’s conclusion.
Reuters
