Tanker hits river cruise boat on Mississippi River

A tanker crashed into a river cruise boat in New Orleans (Enan Chediak/The Advocate via AP)

A tanker has struck a New Orleans river cruise boat with 129 passengers on board, partially submerging the vessel.

Rescues are under way on the Mississippi River, officials said.

Authorities did not immediately release whether there were injuries or deaths.

Video from the scene showed the much larger Atlantic Asphalt tanker hit the paddlewheel cruise boat while it appeared to be docked.

People were seen in the river in life jackets or standing near the railing as the other side of the American Heritage listed further into the water.

The cruise ship is operated by American Cruise Lines.

Lt Stephanie C Norwood with New Orleans Emergency Medical Services said all agencies are responding to rescue efforts.