The long-awaited International Cruise Terminal at Ballard Pier, Mumbai, is set to begin full-scale operations. Built at a cost of ₹556 crore by Mumbai Port Authority (MbPA), the facility will be officially inaugurated tomorrow by the Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways. With approximately 3 lakh Indians currently travelling on cruises, this terminal is set to make Mumbai a major departure point for international sea travel.

• Can berth 2 large cruise ships at the same time

• Handles up to 10,000 international passengers per day

• Equipped with 72 immigration counters

• Annual capacity: 1 million passengers

• Can service 500 cruise ships annually

Initiated in 2018, the project faced repeated delays, missing its original July 2022 deadline due to funding and operational hurdles. The terminal was developed under a public-private partnership, with Ballard Pier Port Private Limited and J M Baxi & Co handling operations. MbPA has signed a 30-year concession agreement involving a ₹30 crore security deposit and ₹5 crore annual rent, increasing by 5% each year.

Spanning 4.15 lakh sq. ft, the terminal comprises a ground-plus-three structure. The main building covers 1.70 lakh sq. ft. Lower levels are dedicated to passenger processing, while upper floors are reserved for commercial use. Key features include 22 lifts, 10 escalators, parking for 300 vehicles, plus retail, dining, and leisure spaces for public.