The Greek vessel Irini K sank in the Aegean Sea approximately one nautical mile off Sifnos while being towed to Perama for repair work.
The vessel was being transferred from Kalymnos to Perama, Greece, where it was scheduled to undergo repairs at a shipyard.
According to preliminary information, water began entering the engine room during the tow. The flooding developed rapidly and could not be brought under control.
As the situation worsened, the vessel continued taking on water and eventually sank.
There were two people onboard Irini K at the time of the incident.
Both were able to evacuate the vessel before it went down and were subsequently rescued by the tug involved in the operation.
They were reported to be in good condition following the rescue.
No casualties were reported.
The shipowner stated that there was no fuel or lubricating oil onboard Irini K, significantly reducing the immediate risk of marine pollution following the sinking.
A Coast Guard vessel was deployed to the area to monitor the site and respond to any possible environmental risks.
Initial reports indicated that no significant pollution had been detected in the surrounding waters after the sinking.
The tug involved in the tow later proceeded to the port of Kamares on Sifnos following the incident.
Weather conditions in the area included moderate to fresh northerly winds, which may have complicated the towing operation and the response.
The exact cause of the flooding has not yet been officially confirmed.
Authorities are expected to examine the condition of the vessel, towing arrangements and the circumstances surrounding the sudden ingress of water.
Irini K was a Greek vessel built in 1966. It measured approximately 62 metres in length and 16 metres in beam.
The sinking of the ageing vessel occurred while it was already being transferred for repair work, adding particular significance to the investigation into its technical condition before the tow began.
The two people onboard were safely rescued, while Greek authorities continue to monitor the wreck area and assess any possible navigational or environmental risks.
