The 111-meter superyacht Leviathan has recently been delivered after successful sea trials near Stellendam, Netherlands. This significant maritime project is owned by Gabe Newell, a prominent American video game developer and the new proprietor of Oceanco.
Innovative Design and Collaboration
Leviathan showcases a unique, human-centric design approach. It is the result of extensive collaboration among the owner, crew, and builders aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and crew well-being. Gabe Newell expressed his satisfaction, stating, “Working with the team at Oceanco is incredibly enjoyable and a lot of fun.” He noted the team’s professionalism and creativity in embracing unusual requests.
Oceanco’s CEO, Marcel Onkenhout, added that the yacht’s design and construction broke traditional molds, emphasizing the collaboration among all stakeholders. With the completion of sea trials, Onkenhout officially declared Leviathan as the “most comfortable yacht ever designed, built and delivered by Oceanco.”
Design Features and Sustainability
Naval architecture for Leviathan was jointly developed by Oceanco and Lateral Naval Architects. The exterior is crafted by Oceanco, while the interiors are designed by Mark Berryman, who is known for previous projects such as the 136-meter Lürssen Flying Fox. Leviathan aims to foster team building and scientific pursuits on board.
The yacht incorporates innovative materials, replacing traditional high-maintenance options with composite alternatives. Features include:
- Composite decks and handrails
- Full-height glass superstructure
- Durable honed stone and natural wool carpets
This design focuses on reducing maintenance while maintaining aesthetic appeal. Additionally, Leviathan is equipped with advanced technologies, including a diesel-electric power plant and a battery-powered energy storage system for emission-free operation.
Commitment to Purpose and Collaboration
The yacht’s construction has been marked by active participation from Newell and technical representatives from YTMC and brokerage firm Y.CO. A notable feature is a glass panel in Leviathan’s main staircase, engraved with the names of over 2,000 individuals who contributed to its creation, symbolizing the project’s collaborative spirit.
Deniz de Koningh, Oceanco’s project director, emphasized Leviathan’s role in a new philosophy of yachting. This philosophy prioritizes purpose in design and operations. Charlie Birkett, CEO of Y.CO, added that Leviathan is a “working ecosystem” supporting various activities, from hospitality to scientific research.
Specifications of Leviathan
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | 111m / 364ft |
| Beam | 17.8m / 58ft |
| Naval Architecture | Oceanco and Lateral Naval Architects |
| Exterior Design | Oceanco |
| Interior Design | Mark Berryman Design |
| Owner’s Representatives | Y.CO and YTMC |
The launch of Leviathan marks a significant chapter for Oceanco, which currently has multiple large-scale projects underway. It is the third-largest vessel within the shipyard’s fleet, following the 127-meter Koru and 117-meter Infinity. The delivery showcases Newell’s vision for the future of yachting, demonstrating commitment to innovation, sustainability, and collaboration.
