Riverboat American Jazz stuck on Lake Barkley sandbar, may delay Clarksville arrival

Update, 12:11 p.m.: MSU Paducah marine investigators are enroute to assess the situation and provide assistance to the American Jazz, according Petty Officer Jonathan Lally of the Coast Guard 8th District.

There are currently no reported injuries, pollution or damage to the vessel. Commercial tug boats and divers will inspect the hull for seaworthiness and are planning to refloat the vessel later today.

Update, 10:50 a.m.: Guests on the American Jazz cruise ship may be delayed from their excursions, but they reported to Clarksville Now that they’re being well taken care of.

“The crew is doing everything possible to accommodate the guests, and the guests are all taking it in stride,” Aaron James said. “If we were going to get stuck anywhere, this is one of the most beautiful spots possible.”

Previously:

LAKE BARKLEY, KY (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – The American Jazz, one of the newest ships in the American Cruise Lines fleet, is currently stuck on a sandbar in Lake Barkley, causing a delay in the ship’s seven-day voyage from Memphis to Nashville.

According to a report by WKRN, the ship became stuck on a sandbar near Barkley Bridge on Wednesday, July 7. Photos of the ship quickly began spreading across social media platforms. The American Jazz was scheduled to stop in Clarksville during its trip.

Trigg County Emergency Management told WKRN that the U.S Coast Guard had at least on tug boat helping to dislodge the American Jazz.

American Cruise Lines spokesperson Alexa Paolella told Clarksville Now the ship is expected to be underway again soon with few adjustments to its normal schedule.

“There is no damage to the small riverboat, and both guests and crew aboard have been informed of the temporary delay. American Cruise Lines is taking all appropriate steps with authorities while local service providers assist the ship,” Paolella said.