Carnival Valor Lists on Mississippi River, Flooding Pool Deck as Ship Dodges Powerless Cargo Vessel

Passengers aboard Carnival Valor got an unexpected scare in the early hours of August 17 when the 2,980-guest ship listed dramatically while transiting the Mississippi River back to New Orleans, sending pool water spilling across the deck and into the buffet area. No serious injuries were reported.

According to passenger accounts, the captain made a hard right turn after a cargo ship ahead lost power and was sitting dark in the channel. One passenger who captured video of the moment said it felt like the ship might tip over as it leaned sharply before righting itself.

Crew members responded immediately and offered medical assistance to the small number of guests who requested it. Carnival said that “movements of this nature can occur during normal navigation” but confirmed it is reviewing the circumstances of the incident.

Despite the scare, Carnival Valor arrived in New Orleans on schedule at 8 a.m. and departed on time that afternoon for its next sailing, a five-night Western Caribbean cruise, with no reported damage to the ship or disruption to its itinerary.

Sources: TravelPulse, WBRZ