A tourist submarine has sunk off the coast of Egypt, leaving at least six people dead and nine others injured, according to reports.

A submarine sank in the Red Sea near Hurghada, Egypt. Credit: SW Photography / Getty

The vessel, named Sindbad, was preparing to embark on a trip in the Red Sea near Hurghada when it went under on Wednesday, March 27.

Local newspaper Al-Masry Al-Youm reported that the submarine had just begun its journey to offer passengers a glimpse of the region’s coral reefs when the horrific incident occurred.

About 44 people from various countries were on board at the time, with the submarine stationed in front of a popular hotel marina in the tourist hotspot of Hurghada.

Rescue efforts were launched immediately. The Red Sea Health Directorate and the Egyptian Ambulance Authority were both reportedly placed on high alert, deploying 21 ambulances and mobilizing security and rescue forces to the scene.

Authorities have so far managed to pull 29 people from the sunken vessel, according to the outlet. Among the nine people injured, four are currently said to be in critical condition. According to numerous reports, at least six people are believed to have died.

Hurghada is a beach resort town stretching around 25 miles along Egypt’s Red Sea coast.

The Sindbad submarine has been a staple of the town’s tourism scene for years. On its official website, the company claims to operate two of the world’s only “14 real recreational submarines,” offering tourists a chance to descend 25 meters (82 feet) beneath the surface to view “500 metres of coral reef and its marine inhabitants.”

“[Go] below sea level for 40 minutes enjoying the corals and fish with divers show to take photos for unforgettable memory, then you will be transferred back by the same boat to the marine,” the company says.

Describing its features, the site explains: “It offers 44 passenger seats. Two pilots’ seats and a sizable round viewing window for each passenger. Experience the beauty of the Red Sea’s underwater world without getting wet. It’s perfect for all ages, and the memories will last a lifetime.

We provide point-to-point transfer from your hotel to our terminal, including land-sea transportation, and all with an excellent level of service,” they added.

The submarine is also equipped with oxygen masks and life vests in case of an emergency, according to the website.

Trips typically begin with check-in at 11AM local time, with guests boarding the submarine around 12:35PM. Reports of the incident began surfacing shortly before midday.