Billionaire Gabe Newell, co-founder of Valve, is making extravagant moves with his latest acquisition: a massive ocean exploration ship, spanning the dimensions of an NFL football field, to the tune of $300 million.
Billionaire Gabe Newell Invests in Deep-Sea Exploration with RV6000
Gabe Newell, the founder of Valve and creator of the iconic game Half-Life, is diving into a new venture - deep-sea exploration. Newell has recently invested $300 million in a custom-built research vessel named RV6000, marking a significant move in marine research and exploration.
The RV6000, being designed and constructed by ship builder Vard in partnership with Newell's marine research organization, Inkfish, is a 100-meter state-of-the-art deep-sea exploration ship. It is set to revolutionize deep ocean research with advanced technology and extensive scientific support capabilities.
Key design features of the RV6000 include a gondola-mounted sensor suite for high-resolution deep-sea data capture, a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) capable of operating at depths of 6,000 meters, facilities to support two manned submersibles, hangars, a helideck, and modern laboratories, workshops, and offices onboard. The vessel is designed for multi-month expeditions into the deepest parts of the ocean and can accommodate up to 70 scientists, with premium accommodations and recreational spaces that maintain low noise and vibration - critical for sensitive scientific measurements and crew comfort.
The RV6000 will become the flagship of Inkfish’s fleet, joining existing vessels like RV Dagon and RV Hydra, but is the largest and most technically advanced vessel they operate. Inkfish maritime operations lead Stu Buckle stated that the research vessels are crucial for their work, and the RV6000 will significantly increase their capacity and broaden the support they can offer the global research community.
The RV6000 is expected to greatly contribute to deep-sea mapping and general research efforts in the global research community. Its design and technology will enable prolonged missions deeper than most current vessels can reach, providing scientists with unprecedented access for studying marine biodiversity, geology, and ecosystems. Additionally, Newell’s hands-on involvement and investment represent a notable example of private funding accelerating capabilities in marine science.
The RV6000 is not Newell's only investment in marine research and exploration. Prior to this investment, he purchased Inkfish and the private deep-sea exploration platform, Hadal Exploration System, in 2022. He has also invested in custom yacht builder Oceanco, demonstrating a genuine interest in the things he buys.
The RV6000 is being reported by Luxury Launches and Super Yacht Times, two publications known for covering luxury yachts and marine projects. However, the RV6000 is more than just a luxury vessel; it's a powerful tool for deep-sea exploration and research. With a net worth reported to be $9.5 billion, Newell's investments in marine research and exploration are likely to contribute to advancements in the field.
The vessel is slated for launch around 2028 and is seen as a milestone in private deep-sea exploration infrastructure, potentially spurring broader collaboration in the scientific community through its advanced operational support. Newell's passion for the seas, evident in his lunchtime scuba diving adventures, is now translating into groundbreaking deep-sea research and exploration with the RV6000.
- Gabe Newell, the founder of Valve and creator of the game Half-Life, has shown an interest in technology beyond video games, as he recently invested $300 million in deep-sea exploration with the RV6000.
- The RV6000, a 100-meter deep-sea exploration ship, is being designed with advanced technology and extensive scientific support capabilities, setting it apart in marine research and exploration.
- With the launch of the RV6000 expected around 2028, Newell's investment could potentially spur broader collaboration in the scientific community due to its advanced operational support.
- Newell's investment in the RV6000 is part of a broader interest in marine research, as he previously purchased Inkfish, a marine research organization, and the private deep-sea exploration platform, Hadal Exploration System.
- Newell's wealth, estimated at $9.5 billion, allows him to make significant investments in areas beyond finance and technology, such as deep-sea exploration and research.
