The American Heritage paddlewheeler collided with the Atlantic Asphalt asphalt tanker in New Orleans on November 13, 2026, leaving the river cruise ship lying on its side and partially submerged in the Mississippi River. The collision occurred around 13:30 EST (18:30 GMT) on Friday. Tugboat operators, police, and first responders assisted in the rescue, and traffic on the Mississippi River was shut down during the operation.
About 130 passengers and crew were aboard the American Heritage at the time. Thirty-two people were hospitalized with non-critical injuries, including the ship’s captain who was injured but postponed medical treatment until all passengers
and crew were accounted for. As of the following day, nine people remained hospitalized. Passengers began evacuating as the vessel started to list before capsizing.
Officials Praise Rescue Efforts
New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno credited first responders for their swift action, saying, “We have zero people unaccounted for, which truly is a miracle on the Mississippi.” Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry called the rescue “a miracle on the Mississippi” and pledged to investigate the incident. US President Donald Trump praised the rescue on social media, calling it an “incredible job.” The Port of New Orleans chief Melanie Montroll reported on the passenger evacuation and rescue
efforts.
Investigation and Context
US Coast Guard Captain Melanie Burnham stated there was “some type of a loss of steering” aboard the Atlantic Asphalt tanker that contributed to the collision. The National Transportation Safety Board recovered the tanker’s data recorder for analysis. The American Heritage had been finishing an eight-day cruise along Louisiana and Mississippi destinations operated by American Cruise Lines. The paddlewheeler features a glass-enclosed restaurant, fitness center, and three guest lounges. Governor Landry noted that ships have safely operated on the Mississippi River for years.
