Tourist Submarine Sinks in Red Sea, Leaving Six Dead

HURGHADA, Egypt — A tourist submarine sank off the coast of Hurghada, Egypt, on Thursday, resulting in the deaths of six people and injuries to nine others. The incident occurred during a tour of the coral reefs in the Red Sea, a popular attraction for tourists visiting the region.

Emergency services responded to the scene near the marina, rescuing 29 people from the vessel, named Sindbad. The injured were transported to local hospitals, with four reported to be in critical condition. The nationalities of those affected have not yet been officially released, but reports indicate a mix of tourists were on board.

The submarine, operated by Sindbad Submarines, had been offering underwater excursions in the area for several years. These trips allow tourists to descend approximately 25 meters (82 feet) below the surface to view the coral reefs and marine life. The cause of the sinking is currently under investigation.

The Red Sea Governorate released a statement confirming the incident and the rescue efforts. According to local media, 21 ambulances were dispatched to the scene. The Red Sea Health Directorate and the Egyptian Ambulance Authority were placed on high alert following the sinking.

Hurghada, a beach resort town stretching along the Red Sea coast, is a popular destination for tourists, including those from Britain and Germany. The area is known for its diving and snorkeling opportunities, with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine ecosystems.

The incident raises concerns about the safety regulations and maintenance standards of tourist submarines operating in the Red Sea. Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the sinking and to assess the safety protocols in place for such tourist activities.

This is not the first maritime incident in the Red Sea in recent months. In November, a tourist boat named Sea Story sank, leaving 11 dead or missing, including a British couple. That vessel was carrying 31 tourists of various nationalities and 14 crew members. These incidents may further impact the tourism industry, which has already been affected by regional conflicts. Several tourist companies have already limited travel in the Red Sea due to safety concerns.

The sinking of the tourist submarine is a tragic event that has shaken the local community and the tourism industry. The investigation into the cause of the sinking is ongoing, and authorities are working to ensure the safety of tourists in the region.