The Celebrity Millennium’s maiden call at Mumbai’s Ballard Pier on the morning of 25 November delivered a striking display of scale, coordination, and hospitality along the city’s historic waterfront. As 2,062 guests disembarked and 2,096 boarded, the terminal operated with a seamless rhythm that underscored its growing capability in global cruising.
Immigration formalities were cleared at an average pace of just 25 seconds per traveller, ensuring steady movement through the terminal. Outside, a forecourt configured to accommodate 35 coaches at once enabled shore excursions to begin without delay, while buggies ferried guests comfortably across the premises. An ‘Incredible India’ helpdesk guided visitors to Mumbai’s top attractions, adding a touch of curated local warmth.
Behind the scenes, teams processed nearly 4,000 pieces of baggage in both directions. From cruise exit to terminal, scanning, and final placement into numbered and categorised zones, the entire sortation cycle was completed within an impressive 2–3 hours. A soft Indian soundscape played through the terminal, balancing high-volume operations with an atmosphere that felt calm, grounded, and distinctly local.
Purpose-built to handle both intermediate and full turnaround calls, Ballard Pier successfully moved thousands of passengers through its spaces with clarity and ease—even at peak load.
“The difference from our last visit to today is remarkable — a leap of change. The hospitality has been exceptional. We’re looking forward to returning to The Ballard Pier soon. It’s encouraging to see how quickly the cruising experience in Mumbai, and in India overall, is evolving,” said Captain Pierre Caruana of the Celebrity Millennium.
Blending hospitality, modern infrastructure, and a strong sense of place, Ballard Pier is shaping Mumbai’s new standard for effortless and culturally resonant cruise arrivals.
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