A tragic incident occurred off the coast of Egypt when a tourist submarine sank in the Red Sea, resulting in the deaths of six Russian nationals. The submarine, named Sindbad, was carrying 45 passengers, including children, when it went down about one kilometer from shore near the popular resort town of Hurghada.
The Red Sea governorate confirmed that 39 tourists were rescued following the sinking, and no one is reported missing. The Russian embassy in Cairo initially confirmed that four of its citizens had died, but later information indicated that the total number of fatalities had risen to six.
The submarine was on a sightseeing trip, allowing tourists to view the beautiful coral reefs that the Red Sea is famous for. Eyewitness accounts and local media reports suggest that the submarine had been operating in the area for several years without incident.
Emergency services responded quickly, deploying 21 ambulances to assist with the rescue efforts. Most of the rescued tourists were taken to local hotels and hospitals, and their health is reportedly stable.
Authorities are still investigating the cause of the sinking. The Russian embassy stated that it is working to clarify the situation for the families of those affected. This incident highlights ongoing concerns about safety in the region, especially as some tour operators have recently limited or halted activities due to regional conflicts.
Tourism is a significant part of Egypt’s economy, with the Red Sea being a major attraction for visitors. In 2024, Egypt was ranked first in Africa for tourism revenues, earning $14.1 billion, which underscores the importance of this sector to the country’s financial health. However, incidents like this raise questions about safety in the tourism industry, especially given a recent event where a diving boat sank after being struck by high waves.
As the investigation continues, the focus remains on supporting the families of the victims and ensuring the safety of tourists in Egypt’s renowned coastal areas.