Tanker slams into docked New Orleans river cruiser carrying 129 passengers, sparking rescue
A tanker slammed into a docked river cruiser carrying 129 passengers in New Orleans on Friday, triggering rescue operations as emergency crews brought passengers ashore.
The collision occurred around 12:30 p.m. on November 13, 2026, when the Atlantic Asphalt tanker struck the American Heritage, which had docked about two hours prior to begin disembarking passengers. Crew members were also aboard the cruise ship at the time of impact.
Multiple people have been rescued, and search-and-rescue operations remain ongoing according to the New Orleans Fire Department and NOLA Ready. Passengers are being brought to the Port of New Orleans Administration Building for triage and assistance.
Response Efforts
Port NOLA Harbor Police, the New Orleans Fire Department, the New Orleans Police Department, the U.S. Coast Guard and emergency medical personnel are all on scene conducting rescue and response operations.
Public safety agencies are coordinating response efforts, with the immediate priority being the safety and rescue of those involved.
Official Statements
Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry stated he was heading to New Orleans as authorities responded, writing: 'We are aware of the incident on the Mississippi and we are in close contact with local officials and law enforcement.' Rep. Troy Carter, D-La., said he was closely monitoring the response.
The Port of New Orleans emphasized that the incident remains 'active and evolving,' with their immediate priority being 'the safety of all passengers, crew members and first responders.' The number of injuries and the cause of the collision have not yet been confirmed.
Weather conditions at the time of the collision included clear skies, no precipitation, temperatures in the upper 60s, and north winds of 8 to 12 mph, gusting to 15 to 17 mph. The water temperature was around 66 degrees.
Related
