A devastating accident occurred off the coast of Hurghada, Egypt, as a tourist submarine carrying Russian visitors sank in the Red Sea, resulting in six confirmed deaths. The tragic incident has raised concerns about the safety of underwater excursions in one of the world’s most popular diving destinations.
Submarine Disaster Near Hurghada
On March 27, a tourist submarine named Sindbad sank during a tour near the Egyptian resort city of Hurghada. The vessel had 45 Russian tourists on board, along with crew members. According to the Russian consulate in Hurghada, four fatalities have been confirmed so far, though the nationalities of the victims remain unclear. The local governor’s office, however, reported six casualties.
Authorities swiftly responded to the emergency, launching a large-scale rescue operation. So far, at least 29 passengers have been successfully saved and transported to local hospitals and hotels. However, the fate of several tourists remains uncertain as search efforts continue.
A Popular Tourist Destination Faces a Crisis
Hurghada is a key part of Egypt’s Red Sea tourism industry, attracting thousands of visitors each year due to its stunning coral reefs and marine biodiversity. The region has seen a significant rise in Russian tourists, making this tragedy particularly impactful.
This incident is not the first maritime accident in the area. In November 2024, a tourist diving boat capsized due to high waves, leading to four deaths and 33 rescues. Similarly, in June of the same year, another boat sank following storm damage, although no casualties were reported. These accidents highlight growing concerns over the safety regulations governing marine tourism in the Red Sea.
Egypt’s Tourism Industry at Risk?
Egypt’s tourism sector is a vital part of the economy. A United Nations report in 2024 ranked Egypt as Africa’s top tourism revenue earner, generating $14.1 billion—more than double the country’s earnings from the Suez Canal. However, repeated maritime disasters could tarnish Egypt’s reputation as a safe travel destination, potentially affecting future tourism revenue.
As investigations into the Sindbad submarine tragedy unfold, questions about the cause of the accident and possible negligence will be at the forefront. Was it a technical failure, human error, or a lack of safety measures? Authorities are under pressure to improve safety protocols to prevent future tragedies.
