Key Notes
- Atlantic Asphalt struck American Heritage while the river cruise ship was docked in New Orleans on November 13.
- American Cruise Lines reported 129 passengers plus crew aboard and confirmed that guests and crew were evacuated.
- The operator’s initial update did not provide a final injury count, a cause or plans for future sailings.
American Cruise Lines’ American Heritage was struck by the Atlantic Asphalt tanker while docked on the Mississippi River in New Orleans on Friday, November 13, prompting a major emergency response. The river cruise operator said 129 passengers, plus crew members, were aboard.
The company confirmed that guests and crew were evacuated and said it was coordinating closely with the U.S. Coast Guard and local authorities.
American Heritage Was Docked When the Tanker Struck
The collision occurred at approximately 12:30 p.m. local time, or 18:30 UTC. Travel Weekly reported that the larger tanker struck American Heritage while the paddlewheeler was at the dock, rather than underway on the river.
The Associated Press reported that the cruise boat was partially submerged and that people were pulled from the Mississippi onto nearby vessels. Early accounts described passengers in lifejackets in the water as other boats assisted.
Responders included Port NOLA Harbor Police, the New Orleans Fire Department, the New Orleans Police Department and the Coast Guard. According to the port statement cited by Travel Weekly, passengers were taken inside the Port of New Orleans Administration Building for triage and assistance.
The Operator’s Evacuation Update
American Cruise Lines said it was “deeply concerned for everyone involved” and would provide more information as it became available. The initial statement did not provide a final injury count, explain the cause of the collision or attribute responsibility for the impact.
A 150-Guest Mississippi River Paddlewheeler
The operator’s ship profile lists American Heritage as a paddlewheeler built in 2015 with capacity for 150 guests. The vessel operates Mississippi River itineraries in the United States, with New Orleans among its departure points.
For travelers booked on an upcoming American Heritage departure, the next step is to contact American Cruise Lines or their travel advisor for sailing-specific instructions. Guests should confirm the operating ship, departure date and embarkation arrangements before making their way to the port.
The operator’s initial collision statement did not outline a timetable for returning American Heritage to service or announce arrangements for future sailings. Those details will matter for passengers whose trips are due to begin in New Orleans.
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