At Least Six Dead After Tourist Submarine Sinks Off Hurghada
A tourist submarine tragedy has struck off the coast of Hurghada, Egypt, leaving at least six dead and nine injured, four of them critically. The vessel, called Sinbad, was carrying 44 passengers from various countries, including families with children, on an underwater tour when it sank near the Red Sea resort.
Mass Rescue Operation Underway
Local authorities managed to rescue 29 people as emergency crews rushed to the scene. The Red Sea Health Directorate and the Egyptian Ambulance Authority deployed 21 ambulances to ferry the injured to nearby hospitals. Witnesses described a chaotic scene at Hurghada Marina, with paramedics, rescue divers, and air ambulances all working intensively since mid-morning.
Cause of Disaster Still a Mystery
The Red Sea Security Directorate confirmed receiving a distress call about the sinking near a major hotel marina. However, the exact cause remains unknown. Authorities have launched a full investigation into the incident. The Sinbad submarine had been offering underwater sightseeing tours for years, marketed as a unique chance to explore the Red Sea’s coral reefs and marine life “without getting wet.” Operated by Sindbad Experiences, it is touted as one of only 14 real recreational submarines worldwide, with personal viewing windows for each passenger.
State of Emergency Declared Amid Global Shock
Following the disaster, local officials declared a state of emergency across Red Sea health services, putting hospitals on high alert to manage the influx of casualties. The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the international tourism industry, given Hurghada’s reputation as a safe, family-friendly diving hotspot. Authorities are working closely with consulates and embassies to notify the families of the victims, whose nationalities have not yet been officially disclosed.
Ongoing Investigation and Moving Forward
Egyptian maritime and forensic teams continue to probe how the Sinbad submarine—a long-standing symbol of Red Sea tourism—ended in disaster. More updates are expected as the investigation unfolds.