39 Rescued as Authorities Investigate the Cause of the Tragedy
At least six people have died after a tourist submarine sank in Egypt’s Red Sea on Tuesday, March 25, 2025. Local officials confirmed that 39 others were rescued, while investigations into the cause of the accident are ongoing.
Possible Cause: Collision with a Reef
Unconfirmed reports suggest that the submarine may have hit a reef, causing it to lose pressure while at a depth of 20 meters (65 feet). The Sindbad, as the vessel is named, was carrying tourists from Russia, India, Norway, and Sweden, along with five Egyptian crew members.
The Red Sea Governor, Amr Hanafy, confirmed that all six deceased were Russian nationals. However, authorities have yet to release full details of the victims.
Victims Include Married Doctors and Children
Among the deceased are two married doctors, while their daughters remain in hospital receiving treatment. According to Russia’s state-owned news agency, Tass, two of the victims were children.
This incident follows a similar tragedy in November 2024, when 11 people went missing and were presumed dead after a boat capsized near Marsa Allam.
Eyewitness Account: Submarine Was Well-Maintained
Dr. James Aldridge, a British tourist from Bristol, who took the same submarine tour in February 2025, described the vessel as being modern and well-maintained.
“The sub was well-maintained and as shown in promotional photos. Fresh paint, modern equipment, and attentive English-speaking staff, including two divers,” he told the BBC.
Aldridge added that while a safety briefing was played in multiple languages, life jackets were not issued. He described the tour as lasting 40 minutes, noting that the vessel did not appear to stray dangerously close to the reef.
Hurghada: Popular Tourist Destination
The city of Hurghada, located southeast of Cairo, is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning beaches and coral reefs. Submarine tours in the area typically offer visitors a close-up view of marine life without requiring scuba diving.
Authorities have launched a full-scale investigation to determine what led to the sinking and whether safety protocols were followed.
Source: BBC