Egypt Daily News – Today at around 10:00 AM, and 1 km from the shore, the ‘Sindbad’ recreational submarine, owned by the hotel of the same name, sank while on a marine trip to explore the coral reefs under the Red Sea waters in Hurghada.
In addition to the crew members, there were 44 tourists on board, including minors, all of whom were Russian citizens. Their trip was organized by the company ‘Pueblo Globes.’
According to initial reports, six tourists drowned, but most of those on board were rescued and taken to hotels and hospitals in Hurghada. Their health conditions are not concerning.”
Initial information indicates that the submarine descended underwater for 45 minutes, but the captain lost control, and it collided with the coral reef. The submarine flipped, and the pressure in the cabin dropped. Six people were killed, and at least nine others were injured.
The Red Sea Security Directorate received a report about the sinking of a tourist submarine in front of the marina of a famous hotel, leading to fatalities and injuries.
The Governor of Hurghada, Major General Amr Hanafi, went to the site of the incident and requested a detailed report on the reasons for the submarine’s sinking.
Additionally the Minister of Tourism Sherif Fathy gave direct instructions to ensure that all medical needs for the injured are provided.
A technical committee was also formed to fully investigate the causes and review the maintenance records of the submarine.
The Sindbad submarine dives to a depth of about 22 meters (72 feet) and can accommodate around 44 passengers on one trip. Tourists expect to see a variety of marine life, including colorful corals, fish, and possibly other sea creatures
