“Massive” Rescue Underway as Asphalt Tanker Collides with American Cruise Lines Ship

Multiple agencies and emergency crews are on the scene of a collision between an asphalt tanker and American Heritage, an American Cruise Lines cruise ship that was docked at the Port of New Orleans at the time of the impact.

As reported by WDSU, approximately 129 passengers, along with crew members, were onboard the ship when the incident occurred at approximately 12:30 p.m. Twelve people are said to have gone in the water, with rescues underway. It is unclear who the 12 people are and which vessel they came from.

Images from WDSU appear to show the ACL ship on its side.

American Cruise Lines confirmed the accident to TMR but provided no additional details.

“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,” a spokesperson wrote in an email.

“This remains an active and evolving incident,” the Port said in a news release. “The number of injuries and the cause of the allision have not yet been confirmed.”