Two experienced kayakers have recalled the terrifying moment their boats were attacked by a great white shark.

Ida Parker and Kristin Orr were seal watching in Plymouth, Massachusetts, when the shark tried to take a bite out of one kayak.

The women, who are both in their 20s, were paddling about 130 metres off shore when the white pointer attacked.

"It happened so fast," Ms Orr explained to AP. "I was talking to (Parker) and the next minute I'm in the water and I just see a shark biting my kayak."

"It was dark grey, pointy nose, big teeth, big eyes," Ms Parker added. "It was like right next to me. It was petrifying."

The shark eventually swam away and the Plymouth harbour master rescued the women.

Damage to the kayak (Photo: State Marine Fisheries)

Massachusetts State Police released pictures of the dramatic rescue on September 3.

Photos taken by the State Marine Fisheries department show the damage done to the boat by the great white.

The shark attempted to take a chunk out of the kayak (Photo: State Marine Fisheries)

Audio of the frantic 911 call made by one of the women during the shark attack has been released here.

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