Egyptian officials said 16 people were missing after a tourist yacht sank in the Red Sea on Monday after warnings of rough waters.

Red Sea Governor Amr Hanafi said preliminary reports suggested a sudden large wave struck the boat, capsizing it within five to seven minutes.

"Some passengers were in their cabins, which is why they were unable to escape," he added in the statement.

Hanafi said rescuers saved 28 people from the vessel south of the coastal town of Marsa Alam.

A statement from the Red Sea Governorate said the 28 had only minor injuries, such as bruises and scrapes, with none requiring hospitalisation.

The governorate said a distress call was received just before dawn from the boat, which had departed from Porto Ghalib in Marsa Alam on Sunday with plans to return to Hurghada Marina on November 29.

A total of 44 people were onboard the yacht, including 13 Egyptians, who include crew members, and 31 foreign nationals from the United States, Germany, United Kingdom, Poland, Belgium, Switzerland, Finland, China, Slovakia, Spain, and Ireland.

The Chinese Embassy in Egypt said two Chinese tourists were rescued by other vessels passing through the area.

The embassy has contacted both tourists, who are said to be in good health.

This is the second boat to sink in the area this year.

In June, a boat sank after it suffered severe damage from strong waves. No casualties were reported in that incident. (Agencies)