BREAKING NOW: At least six people are feared dead and nine were injured after a Russian tourist submarine carrying 45 passengers, including children, sunk off Egypt’s Red Sea coast.
The tragic accident occurred just half a mile offshore near Hurghada when the watercraft was conducting underwater tours to view coral reefs.
According to multiple reports, the vessel, named Sindbad and owned by a local hotel, was carrying exclusively Russian tourists, including minors, when it sank.
Emergency services rushed to the scene, and 21 ambulances were deployed to assist in the rescue efforts.
So far, 29 passengers have been rescued from the sunken vessel, but others remain unaccounted for.
The submarine was reportedly capable of descending 82 feet below the surface and had been operating tourist trips in Hurghada for several years.
Hurghada is a popular destination for underwater tourism. Numerous dive shops and submarine tours attract visitors from around the world, including many Americans seeking exotic vacation experiences.
Nine people were injured in the incident, four of whom were reportedly in critical condition.
The injured were transported to local hospitals for treatment, while others who were rescued were returned to their hotels.
As of now, Egyptian authorities have not yet determined what caused the submarine to sink.
This disaster marks the latest in a string of maritime accidents in the region.
Last November, another tourist boat sank in the Red Sea, highlighting ongoing safety concerns for locals and travelers.
Operator Sindbad Submarines has been in business for 25 years, offering tours that promise to “explore 500 metres of coral reef and its marine inhabitants.”
Still, despite this lengthy experience, something went catastrophically wrong this time around.
Tourism remains a critical component of Egypt’s struggling economy, which has been further constrained by regional conflicts limiting activities in the Red Sea.
Tourism experts observe that sinking episodes could significantly affect traveler confidence in near-future Red Sea visits.
For tourists seeking an exotic vacation abroad, thorough research into company safety records is required, especially those involving underwater exploration or other high-risk activities.
