American Cruise Lines' American Heritage was struck by a large tanker Friday afternoon while docked along the Mississippi River in New Orleans, leaving the paddlewheel river cruise ship lying completely on its side and triggering a major emergency response.
The collision occurred around 12:30 p.m. near the Crescent City Connection bridge when the tanker Atlantic Asphalt struck the docked vessel.
According to the Port of New Orleans, approximately 129 passengers, along with crew members, were aboard American Heritage at the time. The riverboat had arrived roughly two hours earlier and was in the process of disembarking passengers.
Video from the scene showed the tanker colliding with the riverboat, which quickly rolled over. Later images showed American Heritage fully on its side in the Mississippi River alongside the dock.
Local reports indicate that 14 people were rescued by the nearby Creole Queen riverboat.
Acadian Ambulance confirmed transporting eight patients following the collision. In an update posted on X, the emergency medical provider said it had 15 units and two sprint trucks on scene assisting New Orleans EMS and other first responders. The conditions of those transported were not immediately disclosed.
American Cruise Lines confirmed that passengers and crew had been evacuated and said it was coordinating closely with the U.S. Coast Guard and local authorities. Evacuated passengers were taken to the Port of New Orleans Administration Building for assistance and medical evaluation.
The Coast Guard closed the Mississippi River to vessel traffic between mile markers 93 and 96 while emergency operations continued. Local ferry service was also temporarily suspended as a precaution.
The full extent of the damage and injuries remains unclear. Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the collision.
This is a developing story. Additional updates will be provided as information becomes available.
UPDATE — November 13, 2026 4:11PM CST: Louisiana Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser says he has received information indicating that everyone involved in the collision between the tanker Atlantic Asphalt and American Cruise Lines' American Heritage is believed to be accounted for. However, authorities have not yet issued a definitive public accounting of everyone aboard. The number and severity of injuries remain under investigation.
Source: WWL-TV reporting via WBRZ
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