A Carteret Fire Department marine unit was heavily damaged Friday afternoon after being struck by a surfacing whale while operating in the Arthur Kill near the mouth of Raritan Bay, officials said.

Officials say Marine Unit 2 was traveling south of Arthur Kill when a whale suddenly surfaced and struck the underside of the vessel’s stern, causing significant damage and rapid flooding.

All firefighters aboard were forced to abandon the boat within seconds of the impact. Officials confirmed that all personnel were safely rescued, and no injuries were reported.

A nearby recreational boater reported seeing a pod of whales in the area both before and after the incident. Emergency assistance was quickly provided by nearby boaters, including a jet ski operator, along with a marine unit from the Perth Amboy Fire Department, which helped bring the crew safely ashore.

Authorities say the vessel sustained catastrophic damage.

Officials noted that all personnel were wearing required life jackets at the time of the incident, which aided in their safe recovery. The department is reminding all boaters, jet ski operators and kayakers to always wear life jackets while on the water, regardless of conditions.