On March 27, 2025, a tragic incident occurred off the coast of Hurghada, Egypt, when the Sindbad diving boat sank, resulting in the deaths of six people and injuries to several others. The boat, which was conducting a routine underwater excursion for tourists, was carrying 45 Russian nationals, including minors, at the time of the accident.
The Russian Consulate in Hurghada reported that the incident happened around 10:00 AM local time, approximately one kilometer from the shore. According to initial reports, four individuals died at the scene, while later updates indicated that the death toll had risen to six, with all victims being foreign nationals.
Eyewitness accounts suggest that the Sindbad boat, which is owned by a hotel of the same name, experienced a catastrophic failure after hitting a reef. Water quickly flooded the vessel, leading to panic among the passengers. As described by local sources, the crew managed to open the two exits of the boat, but due to the large number of people onboard, many struggled to escape in the ensuing chaos. Parents reportedly fought to save their children amidst the turmoil.
After remaining afloat for a short time, the boat capsized and sank to a depth of approximately 20 meters. Rescue efforts were promptly initiated, with nearby tourist boats rushing to assist the stranded passengers. Reports indicate that 29 people were successfully rescued and returned to their hotels, while about ten others sustained injuries, four of whom are in critical condition.
The excursion was organized by the tour operator Biblio Globus, a popular choice among Russian tourists visiting Egypt. The Sindbad boat is designed for underwater excursions, capable of submerging to a depth of 25 meters to explore a 500-meter stretch of coral reef and its marine life. It typically accommodates 44 passengers and two crew members, providing a comfortable environment with air conditioning and individual viewing screens.
This tragic event is not the first of its kind in the region. In November, another tourist vessel, the Sea Story, capsized, resulting in the deaths of 11 individuals. Over the past five years, there have been 16 reported incidents involving Egyptian tourist vessels in the Red Sea, raising concerns about safety standards in the industry.
As investigations into the circumstances surrounding the Sindbad boat's sinking continue, local authorities, alongside the Russian Consulate, are working to clarify the fate of the remaining tourists. The consulate has dispatched diplomats to the scene to assist with the ongoing rescue operations and to support the families affected by this tragedy.
The incident has sparked a wave of concern among tourists and travel agencies, with many questioning the safety protocols in place for underwater excursions in Egypt. The Sindbad boat has been a staple of the Hurghada tourism scene for several years, and this incident may have lasting implications for the future of similar activities in the region.
As the world watches the developments unfold, thoughts and prayers are with the victims' families and those injured in this devastating accident. The tourism industry in Egypt, which has been recovering from various challenges in recent years, faces yet another hurdle as it grapples with the aftermath of this tragic event.
In the wake of the Sindbad tragedy, it is crucial for authorities to reassess safety measures and ensure that all tourist activities adhere to strict regulations to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future. The safety of tourists must remain a top priority as Egypt continues to be a popular destination for travelers seeking adventure and exploration in its beautiful waters.
