Six Killed as Tourist Submarine Sinks Near Hurghada, Egypt
- Victor Nwoko
- Mar 27
- 2 min read
Six people lost their lives on Thursday when a tourist submarine sank off the coast of Hurghada in Egypt’s Red Sea. The incident, which occurred at approximately 10:00 a.m. local time, involved the submarine Sindbad, which was conducting an underwater excursion near the coral reef, about one kilometer from shore.
The submarine was carrying 45 Russian tourists at the time of the incident. It remains unclear if all six victims were Russian nationals. Initial reports from local sources had indicated six casualties, but official confirmation later revised the toll to four. The victims were foreign nationals, and authorities continue efforts to verify the identities of those affected. Minors were also on board the vessel, but it is unclear whether they were among the deceased.
According to preliminary data, most of those on board were successfully rescued and transported to hospitals and hotels in Hurghada. The fate of several other tourists remains uncertain as investigations continue. Diplomatic representatives from the Russian Consulate General were present at the pier of the Sindbad Hotel, which owns the submarine.
The operator of the submarine has advertised an experienced team with extensive expertise in underwater excursions. The submarine, engineered in Finland, was designed to withstand underwater pressure up to 75 meters and was equipped with safety measures, including overhead oxygen masks and life vests under the seats. The Sindbad fleet consists of two recreational submarines, each capable of carrying 44 passengers and two pilots. The vessel typically descends to a depth of 25 meters for a 40-minute tour, offering views of 500 meters of coral reef and marine life through large round windows. The cabin is air-conditioned and includes personal TV monitors for passengers.
This incident follows a similar maritime tragedy in November when at least 16 people went missing after a tourist yacht sank in the Red Sea during rough sea conditions. The cause of that accident remains unknown.
Egypt’s tourism sector is a crucial component of its economy, with the Red Sea region being a major attraction for visitors seeking diving and marine excursions. Investigations into the cause of the submarine’s sinking are ongoing.
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