The Port of New Orleans said low Mississippi River levels have not affected its operations as it has in other parts of the river. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has maintained the 45-foot-deep channel from Baton Rouge, La., to the mouth of the river.

“Deep-draft shipping and cruise operations within the Port of New Orleans have not experienced any interruptions as a result of the low river stage,” said Port President and CEO Gary LaGrange. “All of the port’s berths are at 100 percent of their authorized depths, and no restrictions on the Lower Mississippi River are anticipated.”

Earlier this month, the steamship American Queen revised itineraries to avoid barges south of Helena, Ark., that ran aground due to low water levels. The riverboat instead remained in Memphis for a few extra days before sailing north.

LaGrange said he met this week with Corps officials in Washington, D.C. and was assured lock-and-dam management in the upper reaches of the Mississippi, Missouri and Ohio rivers were being managed to assure adequate water draft for the Lower Mississippi River.

“We are working closely with the Corps of Engineers and all of our stakeholders to assure customers and shipping lines that the Port of New Orleans and all deep-draft facilities along the Lower Mississippi River remain at authorized depths and remain open for business,” LaGrange said. “Of course, a little help from Mother Nature wouldn’t hurt.”

For more information on river cruises, visit Sell River Cruises.