Mumbai Opens India’s Largest Cruise Terminal, Ushering a New Wave in Maritime Tourism

India’s Maritime Gateway Takes Centre Stage

In a landmark moment for the country’s maritime and tourism sectors, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, officially inaugurated the Mumbai International Cruise Terminal (MICT) on April 21, 2025. Situated at Ballard Pier, the MICT is now the largest cruise terminal in India, signifying a critical step forward in realizing the government’s ambitious Cruise Bharat Mission.

With the capacity to handle over one million passengers annually—up to 10,000 per day—MICT is set to transform Mumbai into a major international cruise hub. The inauguration is more than a ceremonial milestone; it represents India’s broader vision of positioning itself as a global player in luxury and leisure sea travel.

MICT: Architectural Grandeur Meets Global Standards

Developed at a cost of ₹556 crore and spread over a built-up area exceeding 4.15 lakh square feet, the Mumbai International Cruise Terminal blends functionality with a distinct sense of place. The terminal spans four floors—two dedicated to passenger processing, with 72 immigration and check-in counters, and two commercial floors built to international standards.

The interior architecture features a maritime-inspired aesthetic. From its wave-shaped seating to rose gold accents and a striking wavy ceiling, the design honours Mumbai’s rich coastal identity while offering cruise passengers a refined, seamless experience.

The terminal can dock five cruise ships at once, with infrastructure to accommodate vessels up to 300 metres in length and an 11-metre draft. A 300-vehicle parking capacity adds further convenience, aligning with the goal of offering world-class service.

Restoring Mumbai’s Maritime Legacy

Alongside the inauguration of the terminal, Minister Sonowal also unveiled a series of heritage revitalisation projects. The Fire Memorial at Victoria Docks, restored under the evocative theme “Golden Tears,” now stands as a solemn tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of Mumbai Port’s fire personnel.

Additionally, two iconic heritage buildings—Fort House in Ballard Estate and Evelyn House in Colaba—have been beautifully restored and lit with new façade lighting, further enriching the city’s maritime corridor.

The rejuvenated Sagar Upvan Garden, overlooking the Arabian Sea, was also opened to the public. Housing more than 500 plant species, it offers a tranquil urban oasis while reinforcing the Port Trust’s commitment to ecological well-being.

Advancing Sustainability with the Green Port Initiative

The event marked a significant milestone in India’s environmental strategy for ports. The Shore-to-Ship Electric Supply system was formally launched under the Green Port Initiative. This system will allow ships to plug into onshore power while docked, significantly reducing emissions and operational noise, and enhancing energy efficiency at the terminal.

This initiative reflects India’s commitment to sustainable maritime operations, aligning with global climate goals and improving the ecological footprint of its growing cruise industry.

Massive Investments to Strengthen Maritime Infrastructure

In a parallel development, Minister Sonowal also witnessed the signing of MoUs for infrastructure investments totaling over ₹5,700 crore at Vadhavan Port. The proposed projects include the development of container, bulk, and liquid cargo terminals and a tank farm capable of handling 3,00,000 CBM of liquefied chemicals and related products.

These investments are not just financial in scale; they are strategic in nature, designed to bolster India’s maritime trade ecosystem and establish the nation as a dominant force in the global shipping arena.

Looking Ahead: Cruise Bharat Mission and Beyond

The Mumbai terminal is a flagship component of the Cruise Bharat Mission, which aims to establish 10 sea cruise terminals and 100 river cruise terminals across India by 2029. With a vision to generate over 4 lakh jobs and bring cruise tourism to the forefront of India’s economic narrative, this mission holds transformative potential.

“Mumbai, with its historic identity as a maritime hub, has taken a defining leap forward. This terminal will not only serve as a gateway to India but also as a symbol of the country’s readiness to lead in maritime excellence,” said Minister Sonowal.

As India positions itself as a premier destination for cruise tourism, the Mumbai International Cruise Terminal stands as both a logistical marvel and a cultural landmark—welcoming the world to a new chapter in Indian seafaring.