10 facts about Gabe Newell, the new owner of Oceanco shipyard
Which yachts does he own? What are his hobbies, why is he a "brony," and what did he create inspired by the birth of one of his children? We've gathered fascinating facts about this extraordinary person.
People
06 august 2025
On August 1st, it was announced that the renowned Dutch shipyard Oceanco has changed ownership. The new owner is Gabe Newell, a prominent figure in the computer technology and gaming industry. Gabe Newell began his professional career at Microsoft but gained worldwide recognition as one of the co-founders of Valve Software, the developer behind iconic games, and as the creator of the Steam distribution platform, which connects game developers and gamers globally. What else do we know about Mr. Newell?
- Lives and works on a yacht.
- Owns the Oceanco Draak (ex-Tranquility, 91m), Lürssen Rocinante (78m), and the support vessel Damen Dapple (67m). Additionally, Oceanco is currently building a new 111-meter mega yacht for Newell, designated as project Y726.
Damen Dapple (67m)
- Openly identifies as a "brony" (a term derived from ‘bro’ and ‘pony’), meaning he is a fan of the animated series "My Little Pony."
- Engages in research on neurointerfaces and neurobiology, and contributes to the development of devices for detecting airborne pathogens.
- Did not finish Harvard University because Steve Ballmer hired him at Microsoft, where he became the 271st employee.
Lürssen Rocinante (78m)
- Collects knives—he owns at least 600.
- The birth of his son Gray inspired Newell to create the final boss in the game Half-Life, as he was deeply affected by the birthing process.
- Explores new forms of life in the world's oceans and conducts oceanographic research through his company Inkfish.
Expedition vessel under construction by Vard for Inkfish Expeditions
- Purchased the expedition vessel Pressure Drop from entrepreneur and explorer Victor Vescovo. This vessel was famously used during the Five Deeps expedition, which involved dives to the deepest trenches of the world's oceans.
- Co-founded the Heart of Racing auto racing team, which competes in endurance races in the GT class, including the "24 Hours of Le Mans."
News
SKY – world's tallest sloop is ready for construction
Royal Huisman reveals Project SKY — the sailing superyacht, measuring as high as the Statue of Liberty in NY, is ready for...
News
Ximena: the new 43m yacht from Alia Yachts
Turkish Alia Yachts launches its latest 43m raised pilothouse full custom project destined for the Caribbean.
News
Sea of Klein
The famous work of art by Yves Klein, blue monochrome California, (IKB71) takes center stage at Christie's sale during the Paris Art Week.
Full sail
Swiss Team SP80
The Swiss kiteboat project aims to set a new speed record for sailing boats.
