A collision occurred on the Mississippi River near New Orleans on November 13, 2026, involving the tanker Atlantic Asphalt and the river cruise ship American Heritage. The American Heritage paddlewheeler was left partially submerged and resting on its side following the incident.
Rescue and Injury Details
There were approximately 129 passengers aboard the American Heritage, in addition to its crew, at the time of the collision. Some 130 people were rescued from the vessel without any fatalities. Thirty-two individuals sustained non-critical injuries and were taken to various hospitals, with nine remaining hospitalized as of November 14, 2026.
New Orleans emergency personnel, tugboat operators, and
law enforcement agencies assisted in the rescue. The Port of New Orleans closed Mississippi River traffic during the evacuation and rescue operations.
Official Statements and Responses
New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno confirmed all persons from both vessels were accounted for, calling the rescue effort “a miracle on the Mississippi.” Moreno credited first responders for their rapid intervention. US Coast Guard Capt Melanie Burnham noted there appears to have been a loss of steering on one of the vessels possibly contributing to the collision.
Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry described the rescue as a “miracle on the Mississippi” given the large number of people involved and
promised a thorough investigation. US President Donald Trump praised the operation on social media as an “incredible job.” The American Heritage’s captain was injured but declined medical treatment until all crew and passengers were safe.
Timeline and Cruise Itinerary
The first calls reporting the collision were received around 13:30 EST (18:30 GMT) on November 13. Passengers began evacuating the American Heritage as the paddlewheeler started to list and take on water before settling on its side.
Prior to the incident, the American Heritage had been concluding an eight-day cruise along the Mississippi River with stops at various destinations in Louisiana and Mississippi.
The US
Coast Guard and other authorities remain involved in investigating the precise cause of the collision, focusing on possible mechanical failure related to steering.
American Heritage Paddlewheeler Features and Safety Context
The American Heritage, operated by American Cruise Lines, is a river paddlewheeler with a capacity for up to 150 guests. Amenities onboard include a glass-enclosed restaurant, a fitness center, and three guest lounges.
Governor Landry highlighted that ships have operated safely on the Mississippi River for years, underlining the rarity of such a collision.
