A tragic accident struck the Red Sea tourist hub of Hurghada on March 27, when the tourist submarine "Sindbad" sank during an underwater excursion, claiming the lives of six Russian tourists.

The vessel, designed for sightseeing tours of the region’s famous coral reefs, was carrying 45 passengers from various countries, including Russia, India, Norway, and Sweden. Five Egyptian crew members were also on board. While 39 people were successfully rescued, six Russians were unable to escape before the submarine was submerged.

Emergency responders rushed survivors to hospitals for treatment, while local authorities launched an investigation into the cause of the sinking. Initial reports suggest a possible technical malfunction, though crew testimonies and safety compliance records are being examined.

Tourism officials have expressed concern over the incident’s impact on Egypt’s Red Sea tourism industry, which is a major draw for international visitors. Maritime safety experts are now calling for stricter regulations on underwater excursions to prevent such tragedies in the future.

This accident highlights the risks associated with underwater tourism and raises questions about the safety measures in place for recreational submarine operations.