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Large cruise ship collides with paddlewheel boat, causing partial submersion; authorities respond, investigation underway into causes and safety measures.
A tanker struck a New Orleans river cruise on Friday, partially submerging the boat while approximately 129 passengers were aboard the riverboat American Heritage, Port of New Orleans reported. New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno’s office said multiple people have been rescued and search-and-rescue operations are ongoing.
Video from the scene showed the much larger boat operated by American Cruise Lines crashing into the paddlewheel cruise boat as it appeared to be docked. Passengers were seen in the river wearing life jackets or standing near the railing while the other side of the ship listed further into the water.
Port NOLA stated that the ship had docked two hours early to begin passenger disembarkation and that passengers are being brought inside the Port of New Orleans Administration Building. Authorities did not immediately release whether there were injuries or deaths.
The collision underscores the vulnerabilities of river cruise operations when a larger vessel impacts a smaller, docked passenger boat. The ongoing search-and-rescue efforts and the movement of passengers to the Port of New Orleans Administration Building highlight an immediate focus on evacuation and survivor care. The lack of immediate information about injuries or fatalities leaves critical outcome details pending as authorities continue their response.