Oceanco launches 111m superyacht Leviathan focused on crew wellbeing and scientific work

Dutch yard Oceanco has officially launched Leviathan, the 111-metre diesel-electric superyacht formerly known as project Y722, with sea trials expected in the coming weeks. The vessel embodies a human-centric design approach and is a collaboration between the owner, crew and builders aimed at improving operational efficiency and crew wellbeing.

Naval architecture was completed by the yard and Lateral Naval Architects, with the exterior designed by Oceanco and interiors by Mark Berryman, whose portfolio includes the 136-metre Lürssen Flying Fox.

The yacht is intended for an experienced owner with a strong focus on team building and onboard scientific work. In 2023, the yard suggested the yacht's engagement in scientific research and discovery meant there would be "innovative technologies" as well as a convention-defying layout that focuses on bringing groups together.

Leviathan replaces traditional high-maintenance materials such as teak decks and wooden handrails with composite alternatives and full-height glass superstructure bulkheads to reduce upkeep without compromising aesthetics. Materials like honed stone and natural wool carpets were chosen for durability and ease of care, aiming to minimise repetitive maintenance tasks.

The project has been a synthesis of collaboration, with the owner actively participating in key decisions alongside YTMC, which served as the owner’s technical representatives, and brokerage firm Y.CO. As the yacht’s design reflects a shift towards more purposeful yacht operation, further expertise from crew members and co-makers has been crucial in optimising functionality and comfort throughout.

As a tribute to the spirit of collaboration at the heart of this project, a glass panel engraved with the names of over 2,000 individuals involved in the build now stands in Leviathan’s main staircase – a permanent reminder that this yacht was built by people, for people.

"Leviathan represents a new philosophy of yachting – one that places greater purpose at the heart of design, ownership and operations," said Deniz de Koningh, project director at Oceanco. "The owner’s vision sets a forward-thinking example of how yachts can be built and used with intent. We are excited to see the influence she may have in shaping the future of the industry."

Dan Morgan, managing director of YTMC, added: "A sanctuary of comfort where silence meets strength, Leviathan wrapped in her sharp lines represents a superb synergy of form and function."

"She is not just a high-performance vessel," said Charlie Birkett, CEO and co-founder of Y.CO. "She is a working ecosystem, designed to support everything from world-class hospitality to scientific research. That is what happens when you put people and purpose at the centre."

While further technical details remain sparse – with more on her capabilities and operational philosophy to be announced – it is known that the yacht will have a diesel-electric power plant and a battery-powered energy storage system, which will allow extended periods of emission-free operation. Oceanco also revealed in 2023 that the yacht has an advanced wastewater treatment designed to meet high environmental standards.

Project Y722 is expected to sit around the 5,000GT mark, which would put her as the largest yacht by volume to be built by Oceanco. Leviathan follows the launch of another 111-metre Oceanco yacht (known as Y726) launched in June this year, with a gross tonnage of 4,550GT.

The launch of Leviathan comes during a busy period for Oceanco, which has four major 80-metre-plus projects currently under construction, according to BOATPro. It marks one of the largest yachts currently in build at Oceanco and is set to be the joint third-largest vessel in the shipyard's fleet (by length) following the 127-metre Koru and 117-metre Infinity.

The yard also made headlines earlier this month following its acquisition by Gabe Newell, co-founder of video game company Valve. In a statement, Oceanco described Newell as "a hands-on visionary who respects the sea, the craft, and above all, the people who make it possible."