Builder of the world most extraordinary superyachts since 1987. From the 127-metre Koru to the iconic sailing yacht Black Pearl, Oceanco pushes the boundaries of naval architecture and innovation from its shipyard in Alblasserdam, Netherlands.
Founded in 1987, Oceanco has established itself as one of the most innovative superyacht builders in the world. Operating from a purpose-built shipyard in Alblasserdam, near Rotterdam, the yard specialises in custom superyachts above 80 metres — vessels that consistently challenge conventional thinking about what a yacht can be.
Where many shipyards build to established formulas, Oceanco has made a reputation for embracing the unconventional. Every project begins as a blank sheet. The yard’s philosophy centres on close collaboration between owner, designer, and naval architect to create yachts that are genuinely unique — not merely variations on a theme.
Oceanco’s portfolio reads like a hall of fame of modern superyacht design. The 110-metre Jubilee, delivered in 2017, was the largest yacht ever built in the Netherlands at the time. With exterior design by Igor Lobanov and interiors by Sam Sorgiovanni, she represents the grand scale at which Oceanco excels.
The 106-metre Black Pearl stands as perhaps the most technically ambitious sailing yacht ever constructed. Featuring three carbon-fibre masts reaching 70 metres, DynaRig sail technology, and a hybrid propulsion system that allows her to cross the Atlantic under sail alone, Black Pearl proved that sustainability and spectacle can coexist at the very highest level.
The 109-metre Bravo Eugenia, designed by Nuvolari Lenard with naval architecture by Lateral, incorporated groundbreaking fuel-efficiency technologies that reduced consumption by approximately 30 per cent compared to conventional yachts of similar size. DAR, at 90 metres with her distinctive dark hull and aggressive styling by Luiz de Basto, demonstrated Oceanco’s willingness to build yachts that make bold aesthetic statements.
In 2023, Oceanco delivered Koru, a 127-metre sailing yacht commissioned by Jeff Bezos. Koru is the largest sailing yacht built in the 21st century and one of the longest ketch-rigged vessels ever constructed. Her delivery was a global media event, and she has since become one of the most photographed yachts in the world. The project cemented Oceanco’s position as the go-to yard for owners who want yachts that make history.
In August 2025, American technology entrepreneur Gabe Newell — co-founder of Valve Corporation — acquired Oceanco. Newell, himself an experienced yacht owner, brought a technology-forward vision to the company. Under his ownership, Oceanco has intensified its investment in sustainable propulsion technologies and digital design tools, while maintaining the artisanal approach to construction that defines the yard.
Oceanco’s Alblasserdam facility sits along the banks of the Noord River, with direct access to the North Sea. The yard features two covered construction halls and a 140-metre outfitting dock, giving it the capacity to build yachts up to 140 metres in length. Approximately 400 skilled workers form the core team, supported by specialist subcontractors drawn from the Netherlands’ deep pool of maritime expertise.
With a robust order book and new ownership invested in the yard’s future, Oceanco continues to attract owners who want to build the extraordinary. The LIFE design concept, unveiled in partnership with Lateral Naval Architects, envisions a 105-metre yacht with a full hybrid-electric propulsion system, reinforcing Oceanco’s commitment to leading the industry toward a more sustainable future.
Oceanco is part of our verified Yacht Builders directory. The world's leading superyacht shipyards and custom builders.
