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Tragedy Strikes: Tourist Submarine Sinks in Egypt, Leaving 6 Dead

Cairo — A tragic incident occurred on Thursday, March 27, 2025, when a tourist submarine sank off the coast of Hurghada, a popular resort town along Egypt’s Red Sea. The submarine, known as “Sindbad,” was carrying approximately 45 passengers, including five Egyptian crew members, when it met its unfortunate fate. Eyewitness accounts describe chaotic scenes as passengers attempted to escape the sinking vessel.

The sinking of the submarine has left six tourists dead, all of whom were confirmed to be Russian nationals. Among the deceased were two children, highlighting the devastating impact of this incident on families. In addition to the fatalities, at least nine other individuals sustained injuries during the calamity, prompting immediate medical attention.

Emergency services acted swiftly, successfully rescuing 39 tourists from the water after the submarine went down. Reports indicate that the submarine sank less than a mile from shore around 10 a.m. local time. The Red Sea Governorate confirmed that the vessel was properly licensed and operated by an Egyptian owner, raising questions about the safety of tourist submarines in the region.

The submarine was on an underwater cruise to view the vibrant coral reefs when it sank. According to the company operating the vessel, tours typically lasted about 40 minutes and descended to depths of 20-25 meters (approximately 65-80 feet). The local media reported that the incident has sparked significant concern regarding safety regulations for underwater tourism activities in the Red Sea, a crucial area for Egypt’s tourism industry.

Governor Maj. Gen. Amr Hanafi stated that investigations are underway to determine the cause of the sinking. He visited survivors in the hospital, where many were treated for injuries sustained during the incident. The governor confirmed that 29 of the 39 rescued tourists were injured and required medical attention.

The Russian embassy in Egypt has been actively involved, confirming that most of the passengers were Russian, while some tourists hailed from India, Norway, and Sweden. The incident has raised alarms, especially given the recent history of accidents involving tourist vessels in the Red Sea, including a tour boat that capsized in November 2024.

As Egypt’s tourism sector is vital to its economy, ranking first in Africa for tourism in 2024, the implications of such tragedies are profound. The Red Sea is known for its stunning marine life and attracts divers and snorkelers from around the globe. However, previous incidents have already raised concerns about the safety protocols in place for such activities.

In light of this recent tragedy, discussions about enhancing safety measures for underwater tourism have gained momentum. The sinking of the “Sindbad” highlights the urgent need for comprehensive safety regulations to protect tourists engaging in underwater excursions.

The investigation into the specific circumstances surrounding the submarine’s sinking is ongoing. Authorities are committed to uncovering the truth behind this tragedy, which has not only claimed lives but also shaken the trust of tourists in the safety of recreational activities in the Red Sea.

As Egypt mourns the loss of six lives, the focus remains on ensuring that such incidents do not occur in the future. The safety of tourists must remain a top priority, and enhanced regulations could be a step toward preventing further tragedies in this vital sector of Egypt’s economy.

In conclusion, the sinking of the tourist submarine “Sindbad” is a stark reminder of the risks associated with underwater tourism. The loss of life is tragic, and it is imperative that authorities take immediate action to address safety concerns. As investigations continue, the hope is that lessons learned will lead to improved safety protocols, ensuring that the Red Sea remains a safe destination for tourists seeking adventure beneath the waves.
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