The American Heritage partially capsized after the tanker Atlantic Asphalt struck it near the Port of New Orleans on Nov. 13, 2026. (Foto: Instagram)
The tanker Atlantic Asphalt struck the American Heritage, a cruise vessel docked near the Port of New Orleans, on Friday, Nov. 13, 2026. The impact caused the cruise ship to tip over and become partly submerged. Thirty-two people were hospitalized, but none suffered serious injuries, New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno said.
The collision occurred at about 12:30 p.m. local time as the American Heritage was preparing to disembark passengers. Images from the scene showed the tanker hitting the side of the cruise vessel, which began to capsize within minutes. Some people fell into the Mississippi River, while others tried to get off the boat. All 180 people aboard, including passengers and crew members, were accounted for after a rescue operation.
Emergency responders, police officers, firefighters and other vessels on the river took part in the response. Water-rescue teams and port workers helped remove people from the ship, and crews from nearby boats assisted those who had fallen into the river. Moreno called the outcome “a miracle on the Mississippi,” citing the force of the collision and the danger faced by those aboard.
After the rescue, passengers were taken to a support area at the Port of New Orleans, where the cruise company’s team checked that everyone was present. Some also needed help recovering documents and belongings and contacting family members. Local authorities arranged lodging, transportation and meals for affected travelers.
The National Transportation Safety Board said it would investigate the collision to determine what led the tanker to hit the passenger vessel and assess whether navigation systems may have failed. The Coast Guard assisted with the response and temporarily closed part of the Mississippi River to allow emergency crews to work. The cause of the crash had not been established.
Built in 2015, the American Heritage had capacity for up to 150 passengers. It was completing an eight-day cruise to destinations along the Mississippi River and in Louisiana.
