Mumbai’s eastern waterfront has gained a new tourism and lifestyle destination with the inauguration of The Ballard Pier Downtown Experience Centre on October 23, 2026. The integrated development combines the Mumbai International Cruise Terminal with dining, shopping and entertainment facilities in the historic Ballard Estate precinct.
The centre was inaugurated by Dr M. Angamuthu, IAS, Chairman of the Mumbai Port Authority, in the presence of Krishna B. Kotak, Group Chairman and Managing Director, and Dhruv Kotak and Aditi Kotak of the J M Baxi Group.
The project is part of the Mumbai Port Authority’s initiative to make its historic harbour more accessible to the public while strengthening the city’s position as an international cruise gateway. It aims to create a connection between Mumbai’s residents, tourists and its eastern waterfront.
Addressing the gathering, Angamuthu highlighted the evolving role of ports, traditionally associated with cargo handling, imports and exports. He said Mumbai’s harbour could serve broader purposes by creating opportunities for public engagement and tourism. He also pointed out that the new facility would allow cruise passengers and conventional cargo operations to function alongside each other.
The Mumbai International Cruise Terminal occupies the ground and first floors, while the upper two levels, located 17 and 21 metres above sea level, house lifestyle, retail and hospitality facilities.
The development operates under a 30-year concession granted by the Mumbai Port Authority to J M Baxi Ports & Logistics Private Limited. It marks the J M Baxi Group’s first venture into a consumer-oriented maritime destination, building on its 110-year presence in India’s shipping and logistics industry.
The centre will introduce several restaurants, cafes, retail outlets and entertainment brands, including Blue Frog, Ministry of Crab, Olive Garden, Nicobar, Columbia, Mokobara and Nykaa Luxe. Its offerings will be rolled out in phases over the next two months.
The project also features a seaside public sit-out overlooking the working harbour, offering views of cruise liners, cargo vessels and tugs.
Sustainability is another key component, with zero liquid discharge facilities, solar energy sourcing for 50% of its power requirements, in-house composting and used-oil collection systems. The workforce will initially comprise 50% women, with a target of increasing female representation to 70%.
Through this development, Ballard Pier aims to combine maritime operations with hospitality, recreation and public access, offering Mumbai residents a fresh way to experience the eastern waterfront.
Source: Hotelier India
