A tragic accident has shaken the coast of Hurghada, Egypt. What started as a sightseeing excursion beneath the waves ended in disaster, as a tourist submarine sank in the Red Sea. The incident has left many questioning the safety of underwater tourism in one of Egypt’s most popular resort towns.
What Happened to the Sindbad Submarine?
The submarine, named Sindbad, was carrying 45 people, including Russian, Indian, Norwegian, and Swedish tourists, as well as five Egyptian crew members, during a routine underwater trip to explore the vibrant coral reefs Hurghada is famous for.
Unfortunately, the excursion turned fatal. The vessel reportedly crashed about one kilometer from the shore, causing it to sink. Despite swift emergency response, six Russian tourists—including two minors—lost their lives. Most of the other passengers were rescued and taken to local hospitals or back to their hotels, though several were admitted to intensive care due to their injuries.
This tragic event adds to a series of similar incidents that have occurred in the region over recent years, raising ongoing safety concerns for tourism-based excursions.
What Caused the Submarine to Sink?
Frantic rescue mission for five TRAPPED in sunken Red Sea submarine after it ‘hits reef’ off Hurghada resort killing six pic.twitter.com/ZvZ7aKJEKG
— The Sun (@TheSun) March 27, 2025
An investigation is currently underway to determine the exact cause of the sinking. Authorities have confirmed that the submarine had a valid license and was operated by a local hotel. It was part of a fleet owned by Sindbad Submarines, a company that has conducted these types of trips for years.
Emergency crews managed to rescue 29 people from the water. However, the cause of the crash remains unclear. Eyewitness reports suggest the vessel may have collided with something underwater, but this has not been confirmed.
The Russian consulate in Egypt later stated that all 45 people onboard were Russian citizens, including children. This detail adds another layer to the international attention surrounding the event, as families and officials abroad await answers.
Hurghada has long been known as a jewel of the Red Sea, attracting thousands of visitors annually for its coral reefs and marine experiences. But this incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks involved in adventure tourism.