AT LEAST 6 TOURISTS DEAD AFTER SUBMARINE SINKS IN THE RED SEA
According to Egyptian local media, a submarine sank in the Red Sea, killing six persons and injuring nine more.The tourist submarine, called "Sindbad," was in the Hurghada region of the Red Sea in Egypt as it was ready to depart to provide visitors with a glimpse of coral reefs, according to the local newspaper Al-Masry Al-Youm. The submarine, which was parked in front of the marina of one of Hurghada's most renowned hotels (March 27), is reported to have carried about 44 guests of various countries.
After the submarine started to sink, a rescue effort got underway. According to reports, the Red Sea Health Directorate and the Egyptian Ambulance Authority were put on full alert, and 21 ambulances were sent to the location along with security and rescue personnel. According to Al-Masry Al-Youm, authorities have rescued 29 of the passengers from the ship thus far. Four of the nine people hurt in the event are reportedly in critical condition.
For a number of years, Sindbad has operated travel tours in the Hurghada region. According to the company's website, it is home to two of the world's "14 true recreational submarines." In order to explore "500 meters of coral reef and its marine inhabitant," the company permits visitors to venture 25 meters (82 ft) below the surface of the ocean.
"[Go] 40 minutes below sea level to enjoy the fish and corals with a diving show to capture images for a lifelong memory, and then you'll be taken back by the same boat to the marine," Sindbad Submarines says. The Sindbad Submarines website goes on to describe the submarine: "It has 44 passenger seats. Each passenger has a large circular viewing window and two pilots' seats. Without getting wet, take in the splendor of the underwater environment of the Red Sea. All ages can enjoy it, and the memories will endure forever. "With an exceptional degree of service, we offer point-to-point transportation from your hotel to our terminal, including land-sea transportation."
According to the company's website, in the event of an emergency, life jackets and oxygen masks are available within the ship. The ship's journeys usually start with check-in at 11 a.m. local time, followed by a boat ride to the submarine, when passengers board at approximately 12:35 p.m.
