Oslo - A Russian trawler sank Friday off northern Norway but the crew was reported to have boarded a rescue raft, Norwegian emergency services said.

The trawler was believed to have a crew of 17, said a spokesman for the northern Norwegian Joint Rescue Coordination Centre based in Bodo.

A helicopter picked up at least two crew members and was returning to the mainland.

Other vessels including Norwegian fishing vessels were also reported to be in the area and prepared to assist.

Weather services reported that conditions in the area were poor. (dpa)