Gabe Newell Orders $816M Research Vessel RV11000 for Deep-Sea Exploration
Gabe Newell, the billionaire tech entrepreneur and co-founder of Valve Corporation, is enhancing his ocean exploration capabilities with a new research vessel measuring 531 feet, which is estimated to cost nearly €700 million ($816 million). This order marks the largest single-vessel contract ever for Norwegian shipyard Vard. The RV11000, created in collaboration with Vard's design team, Inkfish, YTMC, and Fincantieri Group, will focus on seafloor mapping and deep-sea research. It is equipped with the largest battery system, allowing for 12 hours of silent operation and can host up to 130 crew members and scientists. The hull construction will take place in Romania, with an expected delivery in early 2030. Newell founded Inkfish in 2021 and purchased Oceanco in 2025.
Key facts
- Gabe Newell's Inkfish signed a contract with Vard for the RV11000, valued at nearly €700 million ($816 million).
- The 531-foot vessel is the largest order ever secured by Vard for a single vessel.
- RV11000 is designed for seafloor mapping and deep-sea exploration.
- It features the largest battery system ever installed on a ship, allowing 12 hours of silent operation.
- The vessel can sleep up to 130 crew and scientists in single cabins.
- Delivery is scheduled for early 2030.
- Newell founded Inkfish in 2021 and acquired Oceanco in 2025.
- Inkfish's fleet includes Leviathan, Hydra, Dagon, Rocinante, Game Changer, and Draak.
Entities
Artists
- Gabe Newell
Institutions
- Inkfish
- Vard
- YTMC
- Fincantieri Group
- Oceanco
- Valve Corporation
- Steam
- Lürssen
- Damen
- SuperYacht Times
- Robb Report
Locations
- Norway
- Romania
- Swiss Alps
- Miami