Tanker strikes docked riverboat at the Port of New Orleans; rescues under way
The tanker Atlantic Asphalt hit American Cruise Lines' American Heritage at its dock about 12:30 p.m. Friday. About 129 passengers, plus crew, were aboard, and officials say search and rescue work is continuing.
NEW ORLEANS: A tanker struck a docked river cruise boat on the Mississippi River at the Port of New Orleans early Friday afternoon, setting off a multi-agency rescue on the downtown riverfront, the port said in a release. The tanker Atlantic Asphalt hit American Cruise Lines' American Heritage, which was moored at 1350 Port of New Orleans Place, at about 12:30 p.m.
About 129 passengers, in addition to crew members, were aboard the riverboat when it was struck, according to the port. The boat had docked about two hours earlier so that passengers could begin disembarking.
The response brought together the port's Harbor Police, the city fire and police departments, the U.S. Coast Guard and ambulance crews in a joint rescue and response operation, the release said. Passengers were being taken into the Port of New Orleans Administration Building for triage and assistance.
Mayor's office: multiple people rescued
The office of Mayor Helena Moreno said rescuers had already pulled several people to safety and that the search for others was still under way on Friday afternoon. City, port and federal agencies were working the response together, the statement said, with rescue as the first priority.
American Cruise Lines confirmed the collision involving its riverboat at the New Orleans dock. The company said guests and crew had been taken off the vessel, that it was working alongside the Coast Guard and local agencies, and that it is "deeply concerned for everyone involved." It promised further information as it becomes available.
Injuries and cause not yet confirmed
The port said the number of injuries and the cause of the allision have not yet been confirmed, and that additional updates would be provided as information is confirmed. In maritime usage, an allision is a vessel striking a stationary object, and the riverboat was tied up at the dock when the tanker hit it.
American Heritage is a 150-passenger paddlewheel riverboat. It entered service in 2015 and sailed as Queen of the Mississippi before taking its current name in 2022 after a renovation, according to published vessel records. It sails Mississippi River cruises from New Orleans.
This is a developing story. It will be updated as officials release more information.
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