Six Russian Tourists Dead and 39 Rescued from Submarine in Latest Red Sea Disaster

Six Russian tourists have died and 39 people have been rescued after a submarine sank in the latest of a series of fatal accidents involving tourists on Egypt's Red Sea coast.

- Peter Beaumont

The incident, involving a 44-seater recreational vessel operated by Sindbad Submarines, occurred in waters less than a mile offshore from the Marriott hotel at Hurghada.

One report suggested the boat had "crashed" during a sightseeing trip to coral reefs.

Four survivors, including at least one child, were admitted to intensive care, officials said last night.

Investigations were under way to determine the cause of the sinking, the local governor's office said, adding that the submarine "had a valid licence and its crew leader had the requisite academic qualifications".

In a video shared by officials, a Sindbad employee said "six people were struggling under the water and we were able to pull them out".

There have been several deadly incidents in the area in recent years, raising questions about safety standards. In November, a dive boat capsized off the coast of Marsa Alam, south of Hurghada, killing four people and leaving seven missing.

In June 2024, two dozen French tourists were rescued before their boat sank in a similar incident.