Correction: It was initially reported there were 54 crewmembers, but the correct number was 49. Eight were transferred off with the 120 passengers, currently leaving 41 crewmembers aboard. The original story has been updated to reflect the correct numbers.
UPDATE — Another report has been issued by the U.S. Coast Guard on Saturday evening (July 10). This one containing a correction notice to the number of crewmembers of the “American Jazz” as reflected above.
The report also states that the Lake Barkley Grounding Unified Command continued to coordinate on Saturday to identify the safest and least intrusive salvage plans to free the American Jazz riverboat in Cadiz, Ky.
The Coast Guard also wante to remind recreational boaters to observe the 3-mile safety zone from mile marker 61 to 64 is still in place to ensure the safety of response crews and the public as it continues to work with American Cruise Lines in the re-float plan.
UPDATE — The U.S. Coast Guard reports that the cruise ship passengers and eight members of the crew were taken off the ship on “pontoon boats” Friday evening (July 9) “with rescue and assist boats nearby to ensure passenger safety.” The rest of the crew remains on board. The Coast Guard has set up a three mile “safety zone” around the ship, until it can be freed from the river bank.
NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — A luxury cruise ship that’s scheduled to sail in and out of New Orleans on the Mississippi River– is stuck near Canton, Kentucky.
According to the U.S. Coast Guard, the “American Jazz,” owned by American Cruise Lines, has run aground on the Cumberland River– “outside the normal shipping channel.” The cause is under investigation.
The ship is carrying 120 passengers and 49 crewmembers.
A Coast Guard “shallow water boat” is responding, along with a marine safety investigator. So far, no damage, pollution, or injuries have been reported.
The Coast Guard is working with American Cruise Lines to “establish a salvage plan to dislodge the cruise vessel.”
According to the American Cruise Lines website, “American Jazz” is a new ship which is supposed to begin sailing itineraries on the lower Mississippi this year. The fare for a seven day cruise is more than $4,000 per passenger.
You can see photos and information about “American Jazz” here.