Six Dead Nine Injured as Tourist Submarine Sinks in Egypts Red Sea

Hurghada: A tragic accident off the coast of Egypt’s popular Red Sea tourist destination, Hurghada, has claimed the lives of six people and left nine others injured after a tourist submarine sank, municipal officials confirmed on Thursday. The officials, speaking on condition of anonymity as they were not authorized to brief the media, revealed that emergency response teams managed to rescue 29 people from the sinking vessel.

According to a statement released by the Red Sea governorate, the submarine was carrying 45 tourists of various nationalities when it went down near one of the beaches in the bustling tourist promenade area. The cause of the sinking remains unclear, and authorities have yet to determine what led to the disaster.

Hurghada, a major hub for diving and water activities, attracts thousands of visitors each year, with many opting for underwater excursions to explore the region’s rich marine biodiversity. Tourist submarines, which offer passengers a chance to view the coral reefs and marine life without diving, are a popular attraction in the area.

Despite the rapid response of rescue teams, the tragedy has raised concerns over safety measures and regulatory oversight in Egypt’s tourism industry. Authorities are expected to investigate the incident to assess whether mechanical failure, human error, or environmental factors contributed to the sinking.

The accident comes months after a similar maritime disaster in the Red Sea. In November, a tourist yacht sank following warnings of rough waters, resulting in the deaths of four people while 33 others were rescued. The recurring incidents highlight ongoing risks in the region, especially amid concerns about maritime safety and unpredictable weather conditions.

Tourism remains a crucial pillar of Egypt’s economy, contributing significantly to the nation’s GDP. However, recent geopolitical tensions and regional conflicts have already affected travel to the Red Sea, with many tour operators either limiting or suspending trips due to security concerns. The latest tragedy is likely to further impact the industry, as safety fears may deter potential visitors.

Egyptian authorities have not yet released details about the nationalities of those who died or were injured in the submarine accident. Families of the victims are expected to receive support, while diplomatic missions may be involved in assisting the injured and repatriating the deceased.

As investigations continue, questions will be raised about the safety protocols followed by tour operators in Hurghada and other Red Sea destinations. The incident serves as a grim reminder of the dangers that can accompany adventure tourism and the need for stricter regulations to prevent future tragedies.