Tanker collides with river cruise ship on Mississippi River in New Orleans

Emergency personnel and crews are on the scene after a tanker crashed into a river cruise in New Orleans, Friday, Nov. 13, 2026. (Enan Chediak/The Advocate via AP)

The Details

NEW ORLEANS (WDSU) — Multiple agencies are currently responding to the Mississippi River after a tanker collided with a river cruise ship in New Orleans.

News10NBC’s affiliate,

WDSU, is currently at the scene. Our affiliate reports it happened at 12:30 p.m. Friday. They say the Atlantic Asphalt tanker collided with the American Cruise Lines’ American Heritage while the cruise ship was docked on the Mississippi River outside 1350 Port of New Orleans Place.

In a statement from American Cruise Lines sent to us, it said:

“American Cruise Lines can confirm that our riverboat, American Heritage, was involved in a collision while it was docked in New Orleans. We are in close coordination with the U.S. Coast Guard and local authorities. Guests and crew were evacuated, and we are deeply concerned for everyone involved. We will share more information as it becomes available.”

At the time of the crash, WDSU says about 129 passengers and crew members were aboard the American Heritage.

Passengers are being brought inside the Port of New Orleans Administration Building for triage and assistance.

WDSU says the American Heritage had docked approximately two hours earlier to begin passenger disembarkation.

This is a developing story. Check back later for updates as we work to learn more.