The Dutch shipyard Oceanco has officially delivered the 111-metre superyacht Leviathan following a successful series of sea trials off the coast of Stellendam, the Netherlands.
Owned by Gabe Newell – the American video game developer and co-founder of Valve Corporation, who recently became the owner of Oceanco – Leviathan represents a new philosophy in superyacht design: human-centric, collaborative, and purpose-driven.
A Human-Centered Vision
Described as “the most comfortable yacht ever designed, built, and delivered by Oceanco,” Leviathan was conceived through close collaboration between the owner, the shipyard, and the crew.
“Working with the team at Oceanco is incredibly enjoyable and a lot of fun; everybody is professional, creative and dynamic,” said Gabe Newell. “We knew we were asking for unusual things, and Oceanco embraced it with open arms. Not only have we designed a very unusual yacht that leans into Oceanco’s strengths of innovation and design, but the team has also been willing to collaborate with us on evolving the process.”
Oceanco CEO Marcel Onkenhout echoed this sentiment:
“From the very start, we knew nothing about her would be done in a traditional way. We were welcomed into the team alongside Gabe and everyone who would ultimately be involved in operating her. It is this level of collaboration that sets Leviathan apart from anything we’ve built before.”
Design, Innovation, and Sustainability
The naval architecture was completed by Oceanco and Lateral Naval Architects, with exterior design by Oceanco and interiors by Mark Berryman Design, known for projects such as the 136-metre Flying Fox.
The yacht replaces traditional, high-maintenance materials — such as teak decks and wooden handrails — with advanced composite alternatives and full-height glass superstructure panels. Materials like honed stone and natural wool carpets were chosen for their durability and ease of care, all aimed at reducing maintenance while preserving a refined aesthetic.
Under the hood, Leviathan features a diesel-electric propulsion system combined with battery-based energy storage, allowing extended emission-free operation. An advanced wastewater treatment system ensures compliance with the highest environmental standards.
A Vessel Built by People, for People
The project was managed in partnership with YTMC, the owner’s technical representatives, and brokerage firm Y.CO, with active input from the yacht’s future crew.
In a symbolic gesture, a glass panel engraved with the names of over 2,000 people involved in the build now stands in Leviathan’s main staircase — a permanent tribute to the collaboration that brought her to life.
According to Deniz de Koningh, Project Director at Oceanco:
“Leviathan represents a new philosophy of yachting – one that places greater purpose at the heart of design, ownership and operations.”
Charlie Birkett, CEO and co-founder of Y.CO, described her as:
“A working ecosystem, designed to support everything from world-class hospitality to scientific research. That is what happens when you put people and purpose at the centre.”
Oceanco’s Expanding Portfolio
Leviathan ranks among Oceanco’s largest creations, following the 127-metre Koru and the 117-metre Infinity. Her delivery comes amid an active period for the yard, which currently has three yachts over 80 metres under construction.
Oceanco’s future now reflects the influence of its new owner. Following his acquisition, the shipyard described Gabe Newell as “a hands-on visionary who respects the sea, the craft, and above all, the people who make it possible.”
Oceanco Y722 – Leviathan Specifications
- Length: 111m / 364ft
- Beam: 17.8m / 58ft
- Naval Architecture: Oceanco & Lateral Naval Architects
- Exterior Design: Oceanco
- Interior Design: Mark Berryman Design
- Owner’s Representatives: Y.CO & YTMC
Leviathan is more than a record-breaking yacht — she is a statement of collaboration, innovation, and respect for the people and technologies shaping the future of superyachting.
