Reports from local media in Egypt indicate that a tragic incident occurred when a submarine sank in the Red Sea, resulting in the deaths of six individuals and injuring nine others.
The tourist submarine, identified as ‘Sindbad’, was situated in the Hurghada region of Egypt’s Red Sea. As reported by the local newspaper Al-Masry Al-Youm, it was readying itself for a tour to showcase coral reefs to tourists.
It has been noted that about 44 passengers of various nationalities had boarded the submarine while it was docked in front of a well-known hotel’s marina in Hurghada on the day of the incident (March 27).
Upon the submarine’s distress, a rescue mission was launched. The Red Sea Health Directorate, along with the Egyptian Ambulance Authority, were reportedly placed on high alert, deploying 21 ambulances as well as security and rescue units to the site.
Authorities have successfully rescued 29 passengers from the sinking vessel, according to Al-Masry Al-Youm. Among those injured, four individuals are reported to be in critical condition.
The Sindbad submarine has been offering tourist excursions in the Hurghada region for several years.
The company’s website states that they operate two of the only ’14 real recreational submarines’ available worldwide.
The tours allow tourists to dive 25 meters (82 feet) below the sea surface to explore ‘500 meters of coral reef and its marine inhabitants’.
“[Go] below sea level for 40 minutes enjoying the corals and fish with divers show to take photos for unforgettable memory, then you will be transferred back by the same boat to the marine,” Sindbad Submarines explains.
Further detailing the features, the Sindbad Submarines website mentions: “It offers 44 passenger seats, two pilots’ seats, and a sizable round viewing window for each passenger. Experience the beauty of the Red Sea’s underwater world without getting wet. It’s perfect for all ages and the memories will last a lifetime.”
“We provide point-to-point transfer from your hotel to our terminal, including land-sea transportation, and all with an excellent level of service,” they add.
The company assures that oxygen masks and life vests are available on the vessel for emergencies.
Typically, these excursions start with a check-in at 11 am local time, followed by a boat transfer to the submarine, which is usually boarded at 12:35 pm.
The news of the incident started to surface shortly before noon.