On March 27, 2025, a tragic accident occurred off the coast of Hurghada, Egypt, when the Sindbad tourist submarine sank during an underwater excursion, resulting in the deaths of at least six people, including two children. The vessel was carrying 45 Russian tourists, all of whom were on vacation through the Biblio Globus tour operator.
The incident took place approximately one kilometer from the shore at around 10:00 AM local time. Viktor Voropaev, the General Consul of the Russian Federation in Hurghada, confirmed that five Russian nationals, including two minors, were among the fatalities. Eyewitness reports indicate that panic ensued as water flooded the submarine after it reportedly collided with a reef, leading to depressurization within the cabin.
According to the Russian Consulate, the majority of those on board were successfully rescued, with 38 individuals evacuated from the submarine. Of these, 24 returned to their hotels, while 14 were hospitalized due to various injuries. The Association of Tour Operators (ATOR) stated that there is still no accurate information regarding the total number of injured and deceased.
Among the hospitalized, reports indicate that 21 individuals were treated for head injuries, concussions, and traumatic asphyxia. Maria Lvova-Belova, the Commissioner for Children's Rights under the President of the Russian Federation, revealed that one child is currently in serious condition. She expressed her condolences, stating, "I am in constant contact with the diplomats of the Russian Consulate in Hurghada; according to them, two children died in the submarine crash; from all my heart I sympathize with the families of loved ones."
As rescue operations continued, reports emerged that five individuals remained unaccounted for, prompting concerns about their fate. Eyewitness accounts described chaotic scenes as passengers attempted to escape the sinking submarine, which was said to have only two exits. A passenger named Ekaterina recounted, "There were two open hatches, water unexpectedly poured in; some managed to get out, others did not."
Initial investigations suggest that the submarine may have struck a reef, leading to the rapid influx of water. Some reports indicate that the crew may have mishandled the vessel, resulting in the collision. The Sindbad submarine, which had been in operation for about ten years, was designed to dive to depths of 25 meters, allowing tourists to view the vibrant coral reefs of the Red Sea.
Tourists had previously raised concerns about the vessel's condition, citing old and damaged life jackets, inadequate ventilation, and a lack of safety instructions. The Telegram channel Mash reported that passengers had complained about the submarine's shabby state as far back as 2024, and travelers who had recently used the Sindbad described the experience as unsettling due to the apparent neglect of safety protocols.
Following the tragedy, the Egyptian authorities announced an immediate suspension of all tourist submarine excursions in Hurghada, with the Association of Tour Operators of Russia confirming that all dives had been canceled. This decision reflects a growing concern for the safety of tourists in the region, as well as the need for stricter oversight of maritime operations.
Artur Muradyan, general director of the Space Travel tour operator, emphasized the importance of safety protocols, stating that multiple agencies are responsible for ensuring the safety of such excursions. He noted that marine inspection authorities must certify all vessels and determine their capacity before granting permission for operations. Each excursion requires a separate approval process, which includes verifying passenger lists and checking safety equipment.
The Sindbad submarine was reportedly operating under strict regulations, with a capacity that should not have been exceeded. However, the chaotic nature of the incident raised questions about the adequacy of safety measures in place. The vessel was said to have been regularly inspected, but the recent complaints from tourists suggest a systemic issue with maintenance and safety oversight.
As the investigation into the accident unfolds, the focus remains on the victims and their families. The Russian Consulate has been actively involved in providing assistance, and the insurance company VSK has confirmed that it will cover the costs of medical treatment and repatriation for the affected tourists. The tragic loss of life, particularly among children, has left a profound impact on the families involved and the broader community.
The Sindbad submarine was a popular choice among tourists seeking to explore the underwater beauty of the Red Sea, but this incident has raised serious concerns about the safety of such excursions. The loss of life and the injuries sustained during this accident serve as a stark reminder of the potential dangers that can arise in the tourism industry, particularly in activities that involve water travel.
As families mourn their loved ones, the hope is that this tragedy will lead to improved safety standards and greater accountability within the tourism sector, ensuring that such incidents do not occur in the future.
