Arab Contractors has achieved a new milestone by winning the Work Boat World award for the manufacturing of Viking Hathor Floating Hotel. This prestigious international award is presented by the Australian institution Baird Maritime, which specializes in the maritime and commercial navigation sector since 1978. The selection is based on strict criteria including innovative engineering design, superior construction quality, and the project’s contribution to meeting the evolving requirements of the maritime industry.
Eng. Ahmed El Assar – CEO and Chairman of the Arab Contractors affirmed that this award reflects the company’s leading position in the manufacturing sector and its commitment to excellence and innovation, which has earned the trust of its partners from major international companies. He added that the Arab Contractors has an integrated system for building and maintaining floating hotels across its 3 shipyards in Massara, Ismailia, and Aswan.
Eng. El Assar noted that this award represents a starting point for a new phase of continuous innovation and excellence, stepping towards providing the best maritime solutions and contributing effectively to the development of the shipbuilding sector.
He explained that "Viking Hathor," which was implemented at Massara Shipyard in Helwan for Viking International Cruises on the Nile, is one of the latest models of river tourism designed to the highest international standards. It was executed under the supervision of Lloyd's Register and in accordance with the requirements of the Egyptian River Navigation Authority.
Eng. Osama El Dessouki – Manager of Massara Shipyard Department, which implemented the project, stated that this achievement is in line with global developments in the cruise sector, which is moving towards relying on hybrid propulsion systems and smart technologies, in addition to implementing advanced environmental standards.
He added that this award recognizes the dedicated efforts of the company's work team and confirms its commitment to achieving the highest quality standards in the design, building, and operation of ships and marine equipment. He emphasized that the floating hotel Hathor embodies a unique blend of modern engineering and a classic spirit, offering an exceptional experience for luxury Nile cruises.
Viking Hathor Floating Hotel is 72 meters long approx., 14.5 meters wide, and 10.30 meters high, and weighing 750 tons. The hotel has 41 rooms and suites and was designed to keep pace with the latest energy-saving and eco-friendly shipbuilding technology.