Hurghada, Egypt – Six Russian tourists lost their lives on Thursday after a submarine conducting an underwater excursion near the Egyptian resort city of Hurghada sank, according to local authorities and CNN reports.
Submarine Crash Details
The vessel, operated by Sindbad Submarines, was carrying 45 passengers, including tourists from Russia, India, Norway, and Sweden, as well as five Egyptian crew members.
- Casualties & Rescues:
- Six Russian tourists died in the accident.
- All non-Russian passengers were successfully rescued.
- Four additional tourists remain in critical condition and are receiving intensive care at local hospitals.
The Russian consulate in Hurghada confirmed that the submarine crashed approximately one kilometer from shore at around 10 a.m. local time.
Cause & Investigation
The submarine was on a scheduled underwater tour to observe coral reefs when the tragedy struck. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident:
- The crew is being questioned to determine the cause of the accident.
- The governor stated that the submarine had a valid operating license and that the crew leader held the necessary scientific certifications.
Conditions During the Incident
- The accident occurred under stable weather conditions.
- Clear skies, light winds, and temperatures around 30°C (86°F) were reported.
- Wind speeds were recorded at below 10 kph, ruling out rough weather as a contributing factor.
Sindbad Submarines & Safety Concerns
Sindbad Submarines, a well-known underwater tourism company, advertises its fleet as engineered to withstand depths of up to 75 meters. The company operates two submarines, each capable of carrying 44 passengers and two pilots for 40-minute excursions at depths of 25 meters.
The company’s website states that their submarines are equipped with:
- Oxygen masks
- Life vests
- Emergency safety equipment
Despite these safety claims, authorities are now reviewing whether the vessel’s safety protocols were followed.
Tourism Industry & Recent Accidents
Egypt’s tourism industry, a critical component of the economy, has faced several maritime accidents in recent years.
- In November 2024, a tourist yacht sank in the Red Sea amid rough sea warnings, leaving at least 16 people missing.
This latest incident raises concerns about maritime safety regulations and tourism-related underwater excursions in the region.
Conclusion
With the investigation underway, officials are working to determine the cause of the submarine’s failure and prevent future tragedies. The incident highlights the need for stricter safety measures in Egypt’s thriving underwater tourism sector.