Over 100 people aboard cruise ship hit by tanker in New Orleans; injuries unknown, rescue continues, officials say

A tanker ship collided with a river cruise boat docked near the port of New Orleans on Friday (November 13, 2026) with approximately 130 passengers onboard, leaving the pleasure vessel partially submerged, local media reported. A rescue operation was underway, CBS affiliate WAFB reported, citing port authorities. The network showed images of the cruise boat, the American Heritage operated by American Cruise Lines, listing and partially underwater.

Passengers could be seen on the boat’s deck as it tipped over, in the WAFB footage. It was not immediately clear why the tanker, the Atlantic Asphalt, collided with the river cruiser. Lt.

Stephanie C. Norwood with New Orleans Emergency Medical Services said all agencies are responding for rescue efforts.