Port of New Orleans Seeks $1 Million After Tanker Collision

The Atlantic Asphalt hit the American Heritage at the Port of New Orleans’ Thalia Street Terminal on the afternoon of November 13. The riverboat capsized and partially sank. All people on both ships were located, and 32 people were taken for hospital treatment, according to authorities cited in the lawsuit coverage. No fatalities or critical injuries were reported in one account of the incident.

The port filed its case in federal court late Friday, naming the tanker, its owner Nave Shipping SA and its manager, Thome Ship Management Pte Ltd. The lawsuit says damage to the terminal exceeds $1 million, with the full extent still being assessed. The port is seeking payment for cleanup, inspections, repairs, salvage and other costs.

The filing alleges negligence or fault by the tanker and the companies operating it, including failure to use available means to avoid striking a stationary vessel. It also says additional parties may be identified as the investigation continues. The port has asked for the tanker to be seized and sold to cover damages; a federal arrest warrant directs marshals to seize and hold the vessel.

Thome said the tanker’s crew was safe and accounted for, and that the ship had been separated from the riverboat and anchored for damage assessments. The company said it was cooperating with local authorities as they investigate. Nave Shipping and Thome had not immediately responded to requests for comment on the lawsuit.