A tragic incident occurred on March 27, 2025, when a tourist submarine sank off the coast of Hurghada, Egypt, resulting in the deaths of six Russian nationals, including two children. The submarine, operated by Sindbad Submarines, was on a routine excursion to view coral reefs when it encountered difficulties, leading to a rapid descent and subsequent sinking.
Key Takeaways
- Six Russian tourists, including two children, lost their lives in the incident.
- A total of 50 people were on board, including 45 tourists from various countries and five Egyptian crew members.
- Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the sinking, with initial reports suggesting the submarine may have struck a reef.
Incident Overview
The submarine sank approximately 1 kilometer from the shore at around 10 a.m. local time. Eyewitness accounts indicate that the vessel began to lose pressure after possibly hitting a reef at a depth of about 20 meters (65 feet). Despite the crew's efforts to surface, the submarine quickly filled with water, leading to chaos among the passengers.
Casualties and Rescue Efforts
- Fatalities: Six Russian nationals, including two children, were confirmed dead.
- Injuries: 39 individuals were rescued, with 21 requiring hospitalization for various injuries, including bruises and mild hypothermia. Four individuals remain in critical condition.
- Rescue Operations: Local authorities, including the Red Sea governorate and coastguard, launched an immediate search and rescue operation, successfully bringing survivors to safety.
The Submarine and Its Operations
The Sindbad submarine was designed for underwater tourism, allowing passengers to explore the vibrant marine life of the Red Sea. Key features include:
- Capacity: The submarine could carry up to 44 passengers and two pilots.
- Depth: It was capable of descending to a maximum depth of 25 meters (82 feet).
- Safety Features: Equipped with large viewing windows and emergency oxygen masks, the submarine was marketed as a safe and reliable option for underwater excursions.
Investigations Underway
Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the sinking. The Red Sea Governor, Amr Hanafy, confirmed that the submarine held a valid operating license and that the crew was certified. Russian investigators have also initiated a criminal probe into the incident, reflecting the seriousness of the situation and the need for accountability.
Impact on Tourism
The Red Sea region is a vital part of Egypt's tourism industry, attracting millions of visitors each year. The incident raises concerns about safety standards in underwater tourism, particularly as the industry continues to grow. Recent years have seen several boating accidents in the area, prompting calls for stricter regulations and oversight to ensure the safety of tourists.
Conclusion
This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with underwater tourism. As investigations continue, the focus will be on understanding the causes of the accident and preventing future occurrences, ensuring that the Red Sea remains a safe destination for tourists from around the world.
Sources
- Egypt submarine sinking: Six Russian tourists killed, CNN.
- At least 6 tourists dead in submarine accident in Egypt: Officials, ABC News.
- Six killed when tourist submarine sinks in Egypt's Red Sea, USA Today.
- Six Russians dead, 39 tourists rescued after submarine sinks in Red Sea off Egypt, Reuters.
- Six killed in Red Sea tourist submarine sinking off Egypt: What we know | Tourism News, Al Jazeera.