According to an economic impact report released by the Port of New Orleans, cruise ships contributed $120 million in direct spending, supporting some 3,228 jobs and earnings of $81 million, which generated $5.9 million and $4.6 million, respectively, in state and local tax collections in 2010.

In 2010, the port reported 528,430 passengers. For 2013, projections call for 196 calls and more than 1 million passengers embarking and disembarking. It is expected the increase will support an additional 1,156 jobs and additional personal earnings of $28 million, as well as increases in state and local tax collections of approximately $3.7 million.