American Heritage Update
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GUILFORD, CT—November 14, 2026, —Yesterday, one of American Cruise Lines’ Mississippi riverboats, American Heritage, was struck by a large tanker while docked at the Port of New Orleans. We are proud of our captain and crew for their professional response, and we are grateful to the first responders in New Orleans who stepped in quickly to assist. All passengers and crew are safe and accounted for.
American Cruise Lines will continue to help our guests and crew, addressing immediate needs, including arranging flights and hotel accommodations, and providing ongoing support for those affected by yesterday’s events.
We would like to recognize Captain Leonard Stewart, whose immediate and decisive actions with the crew allowed for the rapid evacuation of the vessel. Captain Stewart remained on the bridge as the vessel capsized, calling for aid and keeping the ship alongside the dock for as long as possible.
American appreciates the support from Mayor Moreno, Governor Landry, and other local officials and we will remain in close contact with their offices. We are also grateful to the U.S. Coast Guard, the Port of New Orleans, and the New Orleans Police, Fire, and EMS Departments for their ongoing help, and we will continue working in partnership with them throughout the entire investigation and salvage efforts.
About American Cruise Lines:
American Cruise Lines is the largest river cruise line in the U.S.A. with 30 small ships sailing the Mississippi River, the Columbia and Snake Rivers, the Great Lakes, and protected waterways all over the country. American’s award-winning fleet reflects the company’s 50-year history of offering domestic small ship cruises that explore exclusively in the United States. Today, it is the only fleet of 100% U.S.-flagged riverboats and small ships in the world. American offers 50+ domestic cruise itineraries across 40 states, operating year-round, including National Parks Cruises and Extended Cruises over 50 days in length.
Media Contact: Alexa Paolella
Public Relations Manager
Tel: (203) 453-6800
Email: [email protected]
Media Kit with fleet and itinerary overview: View American’s Media Kit
Learn more at: www.AmericanCruiseLines.com
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MEDIA INFO: https://www.americancruiselines.com/media