Six Russian Tourists Die as Submarine Sinks Near Hurghada, Egypt

Tragedy struck near the Egyptian resort city of Hurghada on Thursday when a sightseeing submarine operated by Sindbad Submarines sank during an underwater excursion, claiming the lives of six Russian tourists. The incident occurred around 10 a.m., approximately 1 km from the shoreline, while the submarine was on a routine dive to explore coral reefs in the Red Sea.

According to Maj. Gen. Amr Hanafy, governor of the Red Sea Governorate, there were 45 individuals onboard at the time, including tourists from Russia, India, Norway, and Sweden, as well as five Egyptian crew members. While most passengers were rescued and taken to nearby hospitals and hotels, four tourists remain in critical condition and are receiving intensive care.

Initial investigations indicate the submarine held a valid operating license, and the crew leader possessed the necessary certifications. The authorities are questioning the vessel’s crew to determine the cause of the crash.

Hurghada, a popular tourist destination on Egypt’s Red Sea coast, attracts visitors with its stunning underwater ecosystems. Sindbad Submarines, the operator of the ill-fated vessel, claims to have decades of expertise and reliable equipment, designed in Finland to handle underwater pressure up to 75 meters. The company advertises its vessels as safe, featuring life vests, oxygen masks, and spacious, air-conditioned cabins with panoramic windows for viewing marine life.

Despite favorable weather conditions, with clear skies, warm temperatures around 30°C (86°F), and light winds under 10 kph, the submarine crash has raised concerns about safety measures.

The tragic incident follows a similar accident in November, when a tourist yacht sank in the Red Sea, leaving at least 16 people missing after warnings about rough seas. These events have cast a shadow over Egypt’s tourism industry, a vital contributor to the country’s economy.

Investigations into the Hurghada submarine tragedy are ongoing, with global attention now focused on ensuring the safety of adventure tourism activities in the region.