A tanker collided with a docked river cruise ship carrying roughly 129 passengers in New Orleans on Friday, prompting a major emergency response as crews escorted passengers ashore for triage and support.
The Atlantic Asphalt tanker hit American Cruise Lines’ American Heritage at approximately 12:30 p.m. on the Mississippi River, according to a statement from the Port of New Orleans provided to Fox News. 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 post.
“Public safety agencies are coordinating response efforts, with the immediate priority being the safety and rescue of those involved,” officials said.
First responders gather near the Port of New Orleans after the Atlantic Asphalt tanker collided with the docked American Heritage river cruiser on Nov. 13, 2026. Port officials said approximately 129 passengers and crew members were aboard the ship. (WVUE)
Port officials said the number of injuries and the circumstances that led to the collision have not yet been determined.
“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 were at the scene carrying out rescue and response operations.
Officials said passengers were being taken to the Port of New Orleans Administration Building for triage and assistance.
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The American Heritage had arrived at the dock roughly two hours before the crash as passengers began disembarking.
The news release said conditions were clear and dry at the time of the collision. Temperatures were in the upper 60s, with north winds of 8 to 12 mph and gusts reaching 15 to 17 mph. Water temperatures were reported at about 66 degrees.
Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry said he was traveling to New Orleans as the 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 emergency response.
“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 give emergency personnel room to work.
This is a breaking news story. Check back for updates.
