From the World of Gaming to Luxury Yachting: Tech Mogul Gabe Newell Buys Iconic Oceanco

Published: 07 Aug 2025
The international yachting industry witnesses a thrilling development as tech billionaire Gabe Newell acquires the acclaimed shipyard, Oceanco.

Oceanco, a world-renowned yacht builder, is embarking on a new voyage. Born in South Africa in 1987, the company hopped on an intriguing odyssey, navigated by an array of visionaries, each contributing their unique touch to the company’s evolution. Oceanco cruised the seas of innovation and prestige, a feat brilliantly embodied in

Their iconic Alfa Nero series, a worldwide recognized range that set sail in 2002 during the Angelopoulos Greek Era, forever etched in the annals of yacht design. Under the Omani investor Dr Mohammed Al Barwani, the shipyard raised anchor towards the 100-metre-plus luxury sector in 2010, continuing the Alfa Nero legacy while expanding the horizons further. Now, the renowned yacht builder prepares for another interesting chapter as American investor Gabe Newell steps aboard as the new owner.

Beyond his tech savvy and wealth, Newell boasts ownership of Inkfish, a marine research organisation, and an impressive flotilla of research vessels. Inkfish’s fleet, which includes the substantial 68.3-metre Pressure Drop and the state-of-the-art R/V 6000, a 100-metre project currently under construction, represents Newell’s deep-seated commitment to oceanic exploration and conservation.

Newell’s vision for Oceanco intertwines his passions for technology, maritime exploits and the preservation of the oceanic ecosystem. With his extensive time spent onboard his vessels and his incredible west coast network, Newell’s tenure promises to be a fascinating journey for Oceanco, one driven by technology, conservation and a fervent admiration for the high seas. Thus, Oceanco’s future sails under Newell are certain to be watched with keen interest, propelling the shipyard into fascinating, uncharted waters.