A tanker collided with a river cruise ship docked in New Orleans on Friday, prompting a major emergency response as crews evacuated roughly 129 passengers for triage and assistance.
The Atlantic Asphalt tanker hit American Cruise Lines’ American Heritage at about 12:30 p.m. on the Mississippi River, according to the Port of New Orleans. Crew members were also aboard the vessel.
Several people have been rescued, while search-and-rescue efforts continue, the New Orleans Fire Department and NOLA Ready said in a Facebook update.
“Public safety agencies are coordinating response efforts, with the immediate priority being the safety and rescue of those involved,” officials said.
First responders assemble near the Port of New Orleans after the Atlantic Asphalt tanker struck the docked American Heritage river cruiser on Nov. 13, 2026. Port officials said approximately 129 passengers and crew members were aboard the cruise ship. (WVUE)
Officials have not yet released the number of injuries or determined what caused the collision.
“Our immediate priority is the safety of all passengers, crew members and first responders,” the port said. “This remains an active and evolving incident.”
Port NOLA Harbor Police, the New Orleans Fire Department, the New Orleans Police Department, the U.S. Coast Guard and emergency medical teams responded to the scene and took part in rescue operations.
Passengers were being escorted to the Port of New Orleans Administration Building, where they could receive triage and other assistance, officials said.
The American Heritage had arrived at the dock roughly two hours earlier and was beginning to disembark passengers when the collision occurred.
The port said conditions were clear at the time, with no rain or other precipitation. Temperatures were in the upper 60s, while north winds reached 8 to 12 mph, with gusts between 15 and 17 mph. Water temperatures were reported at about 66 degrees.
Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry said he was traveling to New Orleans as the emergency response unfolded.
“We are aware of the incident on the Mississippi and we are in close contact with local officials and law enforcement,” Landry wrote on X. “I am headed to New Orleans now.”
Rep. Troy Carter, D-La., said he was monitoring the response closely.
“I am devastated to hear about the ships crashing near the Port of New Orleans,” Carter wrote on X. “I am monitoring the situation closely and praying for the swift rescue of survivors and for all emergency crews responding to the situation.”
NOLA Ready, the city’s emergency preparedness agency, asked the public to stay away from the area and leave room for emergency personnel.
This is a breaking news story. Please check back for updates.