The tanker Atlantic Asphalt struck the American Heritage near the Port of New Orleans on Nov. 13, 2026, causing the cruise ship to tip and become partially submerged. (Foto: Instagram)
The tanker Atlantic Asphalt struck the American Heritage, a cruise vessel docked near the Port of New Orleans, on Nov. 13, 2026. The impact caused the passenger ship to tip over and become partially submerged. Thirty-two people were hospitalized, but none suffered serious injuries, New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno said.
The collision happened at about 12:30 p.m. local time as the American Heritage was preparing to disembark passengers. Video from the scene showed the tanker hitting the cruise ship, which began to roll over within minutes. Some passengers fell into the Mississippi River, while others tried to get out of the vessel.
All 180 people aboard, including passengers and crew members, were accounted for after a rescue operation. Emergency responders, police officers, firefighters and crews from other boats on the river helped retrieve people from the water. Moreno described the outcome as a “miracle on the Mississippi,” given the force of the collision and the danger to those aboard.
After the rescue, passengers were taken to a support area at the port, where the cruise company’s staff checked that everyone was present. Some passengers needed help recovering documents and belongings and contacting relatives. Local authorities also arranged lodging, transportation and meals for those affected.
The cause of the collision has not been determined. The National Transportation Safety Board said it would investigate the circumstances and examine whether navigation systems may have failed. The Coast Guard also assisted and temporarily closed part of the Mississippi River to allow emergency crews to work. Built in 2015, the American Heritage could carry up to 150 passengers and was completing an eight-day cruise through destinations in Mississippi and Louisiana.
