Mississippi Cruise Ship Collision: 129 Onboard, 32 Injured

A devastating Mississippi cruise ship collision in New Orleans left at least 129 people scrambling for safety on Friday, November 13, 2026, after a cargo tanker struck the docked riverboat American Heritage. All passengers were accounted for, and 32 people were taken to hospitals with non-critical injuries, authorities said.

What Happened in the Mississippi River Collision?

The incident unfolded around 12:30 p.m. CST near mile marker 96 at the Port of New Orleans, close to the Crescent City Connection bridge. The Marshallese-flagged asphalt and bitumen tanker Atlantic Asphalt collided with the five-story paddlewheel cruise ship American Heritage, operated by American Cruise Lines riverboats. The riverboat was docked and passengers were disembarking when the tanker struck its side, causing the vessel to list rapidly, capsize and partially sink.

Video captured by bystanders showed passengers in life jackets being pulled from the 66°F (19°C) water, while others climbed onto balcony railings as the ship rolled against the dock. 'It was just chaos,' one witness told the Associated Press. 'There were all kinds of ships. Inland vessels and cargo ships trying to help, while there were still people in the water.'

How Many People Were Rescued and Injured?

American Cruise Lines confirmed that 129 passengers were aboard the American Heritage at the time of the collision, with crew bringing the total number of people on board to nearly 200, according to officials. All passengers and crew were accounted for, and no fatalities were reported. At least 32 people were transported to hospitals with non-critical injuries, including two New Orleans Harbor Police officers who entered the water during the rescue, according to ABC News.

Emergency responders treated more than 80 people at the port for minor injuries such as bumps and bruises. Water temperatures around 66°F raised concerns about mild hypothermia, but the quick rescue prevented more serious outcomes.

Rescue Effort and Key Numbers

• 129 passengers aboard the American Heritage
• 32 people hospitalized, none critically
• Over 80 treated at the scene
• No fatalities reported
• Water temperature: 66°F (19°C)

What Caused the Cruise Ship Collision?

The U.S. Coast Guard said the tanker Atlantic Asphalt appeared to have lost control before striking the riverboat, though the exact reason remains under investigation. Early reports cited a possible steering failure or electrical issue. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched an investigation into the maritime collision investigation and is working with the Coast Guard to determine the cause.

New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno and Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry called the outcome 'a miracle on the Mississippi.' President Donald Trump also praised first responders for their quick action, according to CNN.

Impact on Mississippi River Traffic and Passengers

The Coast Guard closed the Mississippi River to vessel traffic between mile markers 93 and 96 to allow for rescue and investigation operations. The Port of New Orleans shipping traffic was temporarily disrupted, though officials said they were working to reopen the waterway as soon as it was safe.

The American Heritage, built in 2015, was on the final leg of an eight-day cruise along the Mississippi River through Louisiana and Mississippi. Passengers displaced by the collision were taken to local hotels with support from the American Red Cross, according to CNN. American Cruise Lines said it was assisting passengers and cooperating with investigators.

FAQ: Mississippi Cruise Ship Collision

Was anyone killed in the Mississippi cruise ship collision?

No. All 129 passengers and crew were accounted for, and no fatalities were reported following the collision on November 13, 2026.

How many people were injured?

At least 32 people were hospitalized with non-critical injuries, and more than 80 others were treated at the scene for minor injuries.

What caused the tanker to hit the American Heritage?

Investigators say the Atlantic Asphalt tanker appeared to have lost control, possibly due to a steering or electrical failure, but the exact cause is still under investigation by the NTSB and Coast Guard.

Where did the collision happen?

The collision occurred on the Mississippi River near mile marker 96 at the Port of New Orleans, close to the Crescent City Connection bridge, around 12:30 p.m. on Friday, November 13, 2026.

Is the Mississippi River open to traffic?

No. The Coast Guard closed the river between mile markers 93 and 96 while rescue and investigation operations continued.