India’s Largest Cruise Terminal – Mumbai International Cruise Terminal (MICT) Begins Operations

India’s largest cruise terminal, the Mumbai International Cruise Terminal (MICT), officially began operations. Inaugurated by Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal, the MICT marks a significant boost to India’s cruise tourism and maritime infrastructure. Designed to cater to 1 million passengers annually and five ships simultaneously, this Rs 556 crore terminal is a pivotal development in India’s vision to become a global maritime hub. Additionally, major infrastructure investment agreements exceeding Rs 5,700 crores were signed for Vadhavan Port, including container, bulk, and liquid cargo terminals.

Key Points

Inauguration and Operations

• MICT operations commenced on April 21, 2025, in Mumbai.
• Inaugurated by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal.

Terminal Capacity and Features

• Designed to accommodate 1 million passengers per year (approx. 10,000 passengers/day).
• Can simultaneously handle five cruise ships.
• Terminal specifications include 11 meters draft and support for ships up to 300 meters in length.

Investment in MICT

• Total investment in the MICT project: Rs 556 crores.
• Aimed at enhancing cruise tourism and modernizing port infrastructure in India.

Vadhavan Port Agreements

• Agreements signed for infrastructure development at Vadhavan Port, Maharashtra.
• Total investment: over Rs 5,700 crores.

Key Projects under Vadhavan Port Development

• Container, bulk, and liquid cargo terminal: Rs 4,200 crores.
• Dedicated bulk and liquid cargo terminal: Rs 1,000 crores.
• These projects aim to support industrial supply chains and boost trade connectivity.

Strategic Importance

• MICT and Vadhavan projects align with the government’s Sagarmala Programme.
• Enhances India’s potential as a key player in global cruise tourism and maritime trade.