Mumbai’s long-awaited International Cruise Terminal at Ballard Pier is finally ready. It will be inaugurated on Monday by Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal. Developed by the Mumbai Port Authority (MbPA) at a cost of ₹556 crore, the state-of-the-art terminal promises to boost India’s maritime tourism significantly.
Delayed but Delivered
Construction began in 2018 but was delayed due to funding and operational hurdles. Initially scheduled for completion by July 2022, the project is part of a public-private partnership involving Ballard Pier Port Private Limited and J M Baxi & Co. MbPA has signed a 30-year concession agreement with the private operator, including a ₹30 crore security deposit and ₹5 crore annual rent, with a 5% yearly escalation.
World-Class Facilities and Capacity
Spanning 415,000 sq. ft., the terminal can handle up to 500 cruise ships and one million passengers annually. It includes 72 immigration counters, 22 elevators, 10 escalators, and parking for 300 cars. Up to 10,000 passengers can be processed daily, with five ships accommodated simultaneously.
A New Destination Even Without Cruises
The terminal is a ground-plus-three structure, and lower levels are used for passenger processing. In contrast, the upper levels will be opened for commercial and recreational leasing. This will turn the space into a vibrant public waterfront even when ships aren’t docked.
Rising Cruise Tourism in India
In 2023–24, Mumbai welcomed 91 cruise calls, 20 international and 71 domestic, bringing in nearly two lakh passengers. With cruise tourism gaining popularity among Indian travelers, officials expect these numbers to rise, especially as Mumbai becomes a starting point for international voyages.
Green Port Initiatives and Community Development
Minister Sonowal will unveil the revamped Sagar Upvan Gardens at Colaba and a Shore-to-Ship electric power facility alongside the terminal. This setup allows docked vessels to draw electricity from the shore, reducing diesel use and cutting emissions.
Additional Announcements at the Event
A land parcel at Reay Road will be handed to the Hare Krishna Mission for a community kitchen. The Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority will also get its first office space in Mumbai at Mallet Bunder.
