A major rescue operation is under way in New Orleans after a tanker struck a river cruise ship carrying 129 passengers and crew members, leaving the vessel partially submerged in the Mississippi River. The collision involving the American Heritage, operated by American Cruise Lines, happened at around 12:30 local time on Friday near the Port of New Orleans.
\n\nThe cruise ship was docked along the riverfront, outside the Port of New Orleans Administration Building, when it was hit by the tanker Atlantic Asphalt, according to port officials.
\n\nThe American Heritage had arrived at the dock about two hours earlier and was preparing to disembark passengers when the collision occurred. There were 129 passengers on board, in addition to crew members, the Port of New Orleans said, according to local broadcaster WVUE.
\n\nFootage from the scene showed the much larger tanker striking the paddlewheel cruise ship, which appeared to be stationary at the time. The impact caused the vessel to list and sink further into the river. People wearing life jackets could be seen in the water and gathered along the ship's railings.
\n\n“Emergency crews are responding to a vessel collision near the Port of New Orleans. Avoid the area and…
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