HURGHADA, EGYPT – A tragic submarine accident off the coast of this Red Sea resort city has left six tourists dead and five others trapped, sparking a desperate rescue operation. The incident occurred when the vessel, carrying dozens of Russian tourists, sank approximately one kilometer from the Egyptian shoreline on Thursday.
The submarine, named Simbad, reportedly struck a reef during its voyage. Local authorities confirmed the deaths of six individuals, while the Russian embassy in Cairo verified that four of the deceased were Russian nationals. The accident unfolded at around 10 a.m. local time, during a planned 40-minute excursion to a nearby reef.
On board the submarine were 45 Russian tourists, including 15 children. According to reports, one child is among the fatalities. Survivors of the incident have been returned to their accommodations, while those injured have been transported to local hospitals for treatment.
The precise number of crew members aboard remains unclear, as does the exact cause of the sinking. The Simbad was one of only 14 recreational submarines of its kind globally, and the incident has prompted an investigation by Egyptian authorities.
The Russian embassy in Cairo provided further details, stating that the submarine was owned by a local hotel bearing the same name. Most passengers were successfully rescued and are now receiving care. The health of the survivors is not considered critical, although the fate of some tourists remains uncertain.
Hurghada is a favored destination for tourists from the UK and Germany, with numerous nautical activities available. The sudden disaster has cast a shadow over the bustling resort, known for its vibrant marine life and popular diving sites.
As rescue efforts continue, the incident has raised questions about the safety protocols of recreational submarines operating in the area. The ongoing investigation aims to uncover the circumstances leading to this tragic event and prevent similar occurrences in the future.