According to the state news agency ANA-MPA, the "Goodfaith" cargo ship, which was sailing empty from the port of Elefsina to Odessa, Ukraine, was driven ashore and sent a distress signal in the early morning hours. The captain said water was flowing into the ship.
The same report noted that 18 of the 22 crew members, who are all foreigners, were airlifted by helicopters which rushed to the scene, while the rest were still aboard the freighter, a Greek coastguard official who declined to be named said.
Three tug ships were also expected in the area - which is being hit by strong winds - later on Wednesday to assist the rescue efforts, the official said.