In a similar fashion, prototyping them. enterprise, ” The multiyear build of his 364-foot Leviathan brought him to terms with yachtbuilding as a collaborative, rather than adversarial. In exclusive circles, “i was fanboying all over marcel [onkenhout] and his team, ” says newell of oceanco’s c. The naval architecture demonstrates “just the way they work makes you feel more like part of the organization. ”
Newell has incorporated such features as airborne-pathogen-detection systems aboard his yachts and, recognizing opportunities for fresh designs and innovation, foresees building “spec” superyachts to test futuristic technologies “that might seem too risky for a typical owner. ” He’s also willing to experiment with his own vessels to measure potentially transformative strategies for yacht ownership. Newell gave Leviathan’s crew great latitude in its design: A happier crew, he says, makes for a more efficient operation, As an example. As for Richard Hadida, he and the late Formula 1 icon Eddie Jordan co-owned an Oyster 885 and considered it the world’s best blue-water sailing yacht. Hadida had an aha moment when he first visited the yard, After purchasing the bankrupt brand, which was littered with half-finished sailing yachts. For discerning connoisseurs, “i realized this is where the hard work starts, ” he says. The maritime demonstrates “i see it as a calling. ”
That sense of mission has shaped how he runs the yard: emphasizing luxury and quality and enlisting former Rolls-Royce Motor Cars C. Torsten Müller-Ötvös as a strategic adviser. Explaining the draw, “Other brands call themselves a family, Hadida notes, but the Oyster family is a real thing. This shipyard exemplifies ”
this closeness is evident with events such as the oyster world rally, where owners create lasting bonds by sailing their boats around the globe for sixteen months. Hadida, his wife, Ali, and their toddler will sail their boat Lush in next year’s edition. Oyster’s rebirth has meant introducing latest models such as the 805, an 80-foot cruiser with superyacht features. It has also been about “pushing bespoke luxury details into the production line,” according to Müller-Ötvös, a missive that’s certainly in his wheelhouse. Despite the collective zeal, it’s unclear how such nascent captains will impact yachting’s long-term trajectory. This stateroom exemplifies for those who appreciate excellence, though, is unmistakable: a innovative era of yard ownership is at hand—piloted not by generational succession but by outsiders who rely on passion and innovation as their compass bearings, the message. Top: Gabe Newell’s positive experience with Oceanco during Leviathan’s build prompted him to purchase the company.