At Least Six Dead After Tourist Submarine Carrying 44 People Sinks In Egypt's Red Sea

At least six people are feared dead and nine others injured after a tourist submarine sank off the coast of Hurghada in Egypt's Red Sea on Thursday morning. According to reports from the BBC, the vessel, named Sindbad, was carrying over 40 passengers when it went down near the harbour. While 29 people were successfully rescued, four of the injured remain in critical condition and have been taken to hospitals for urgent medical attention.

The incident, which occurred during a routine underwater tour, has shocked the local and international tourism community. The Sindbad submarine, which is capable of diving to depths of approximately 72 feet, was on an excursion to showcase Egypt’s renowned coral reefs and vibrant marine life. The passengers on board were of various nationalities, highlighting the international appeal of Egypt’s Red Sea diving attractions.

Rescue Efforts Underway

According to reports from the Daily Mail, 21 ambulances were dispatched to the scene to assist in transporting the injured. Authorities acted swiftly, with emergency response teams and rescue divers working diligently to recover passengers and provide medical care. However, the exact cause of the sinking remains unknown, and investigations are currently underway to determine the circumstances leading to the tragic incident.

The Red Sea Security Directorate has confirmed receiving a report about the submarine sinking near the marina of a well-known hotel in Hurghada. Officials have indicated that both local and international maritime experts may be called in to assist in the investigation and assess the safety protocols of such tourist excursions.

Tourism plays a significant role in Egypt’s economy, particularly in Red Sea destinations like Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh, which attract thousands of visitors each year. Underwater excursions such as submarine tours and scuba diving trips are among the major attractions. This tragedy has raised concerns about safety measures in place for such tours, with experts calling for thorough inspections and stricter regulations to prevent similar incidents in the future.