Horror in Egypt: Tourist submarine sinks-six deaths, many injuries!

Horror in Egypt: Tourist submarine sinks-six deaths, many injuries!

Hurghada, Ägypten - Today, on March 27, 2025, the Egyptian coastal town of Hurghada on the Red Sea was shaken by a tragic accident. A tourist submarine called "Sindbad" has dropped, with at least six people lost their lives. Russian citizens are also among the victims: According to the Russian Consul General in Hurghada, Viktor Woropayev, at least four Russian tourists were killed. A total of 45 Russian tourists, including children, were on board the boat, which sank at the marina of a hotel while the passengers wanted to admire the coral reefs.

At least nine injuries were subsequently reported of the accident, while 29 survivors were saved. The Austrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that no Austrian citizens are affected. The incident is reminiscent of a similar misfortune in November 2024, in which the holiday boat "Sea Story" sank and also complained of six dead and five missing people.

rescue operation and security measures

rescue campaigns are underway in Hurghada, for which a total of 21 ambulances are in use. The accident again raises questions about the security of tourist activities in Egypt. Hurghada is known for its long sandy beaches, large hotel complexes and especially for its fascinating coral reefs that regularly attract divers and tourists.

The Egyptian government has increasingly taken measures in recent years to ensure security in the tourism sector. Despite political unrest in the past and the decline in tourists during the Corona pandemic, Egypt strives to expand and diversify its tourism sector. After a decline in the years before 2016, the country recorded an increase in the number of visitors. In the years after 2020 the sector recovered, although the income fluctuated sharply.

economic importance of tourism

The tourism sector plays an important role in the gross domestic product of Egypt and offers many jobs, especially in hospitality, transport and trade. In 2019, tourism income was 12.73 billion euros, which corresponded to 4.5 percent of gross national product. These income is an important support for the Egyptian economy and underline the relevance of tourism for the country, which is known for its historical, cultural and natural sights, including the pyramids of Giza and the temples of Luxor.

The current tragedy could, however, have consequences for tourism in the region, which has already faced challenges in recent years. Many hope that the security measures and the continuous expansion of the tourist infrastructure can lead to a growing interest in Egypt, although incidents such as today's misfortune can shake the trust of travelers. In temporary, responsible measures must now be taken to ensure that security for tourists is a top priority.