JUST NOW: Foreign nationals saw their lives turn around in a dramatic manner when a booked maritime tour became a deadly tragedy.
At least 6 people are feared dead and 9 others injured after a tourist submarine sank off Egypt’s Red Sea coast.
The vessel carried 45 Russian nationals, including children, and was operating near Hurghada when disaster struck.
Named Sindbad, the submarine sank roughly half a mile off the shore of Hurghada, a popular tourist destination known for its coral reefs and underwater attractions.
Egyptian authorities launched a massive rescue operation, deploying 21 ambulances to the scene.
So far, 29 passengers have been rescued from the sunken vessel, while nine others were injured, and six remain in critical condition.
The injured were transported to local hospitals for immediate medical attention.
The Russian embassy in Cairo confirmed that all passengers aboard were Russian citizens.
“In addition to the crew, there were 45 tourists on board, including minors. All of them are Russian citizens,” the embassy stated.
The submarine, owned by the Sindbad Club hotel, has been operating tourist trips in Hurghada for several years.
According to their marketing materials, the vessel offers underwater tours to view coral reefs and tropical fish, descending up to 82 feet below the surface.
“Most of those on board were rescued and taken to their hotels and hospitals in Hurghada. Their health condition is not a concern. Four people died. The fate of several tourists is being clarified,” the Russian embassy in Cairo reported.
This tragic incident raises serious questions about the safety regulations of tourist attractions in foreign countries.
Submarine operator Sindbad Submarines states that it has been operating for 25 years, offering tours to “explore 500 metres of coral reef and its marine inhabitants.”
This is not the first maritime incident in the Red Sea region. Last November, another tourist boat sank in the same area, highlighting the ongoing safety concerns for travelers visiting the region.
Egypt’s tourism industry has been struggling due to regional conflicts, raising questions about current safety standards.
This tragedy serves as a stark reminder to American tourists considering overseas adventures to do thorough research before vacationing abroad.
As the investigation continues, travelers should exercise extreme caution when booking similar underwater excursions or any other extreme activity.
