Billionaire Gabe Newell’s life revolves around games and gorgeous boats, so much so that he’s combined his love for both aboard the latter. The CEO of Valve Corporation, which develops video games like Half‑Life, Counter‑Strike, Left 4 Dead, and Portal, lives aboard his $250 million Tranquility superyacht. The Harvard dropout shared his daily routine in an interview: “I get up, I work, I scuba dive, and I work some more. After that, I either dive a second time or I go to the gym and work out. Then I work, but I live on a boat, so I spend time with everyone.”
Gabe who is estimated to be worth $10 billion owns an impressive fleet, including the under‑construction $400 million Project Y722, Rocinante, now sold Dapple (Mark Zuckerberg’s Wingman yacht, which he transformed into a mobile hospital during the pandemic), and Tranquility, has clearly made the latter his home on the high seas. The 300‑footer, with Asian‑inspired interior décor and 11 cabins, boasts a supremely luxurious master suite, and it’s also where the 62‑year‑old works.
“I work seven days a week,” he added. “I work from my bedroom, as you can see. I enjoy working. It’s fun. To me, it doesn’t feel like work. Everything I do every day is really great. I’ve said this before, but when you retire, you tend to want to quit your horrible job and focus on hobbies and entertainment. Then you could consider me long‑retired.”
While it is not clear from the YouTube video, Tranquility’s full‑beam master suite incorporates its own study and dressing room. She can carry up to 31 crew onboard, who not only mingle with the tech tycoon but may even test new games together. By his own admission, he is always working; however, his work life aboard the yacht must be as thrilling as someone’s extended vacation.
The luxury vessel packs in plenty of entertainment, a piano for a relaxed atmosphere, a movie theater to watch classics, a spa to soothe aching muscles, and a steam room to visit after an invigorating massage or an intense workout.
The best way to unwind, apart from jumping into the deep blue sea, is to soak in the swimming pool or relax in the deck jacuzzi. For Newell’s interests and work, the 2014 ship was refitted at the Oceanco facility, equipping the boat with enhancements that allow the tech tycoon to enjoy a seamless online gaming experience even while vacationing in the Earth’s most remote corners.
135500 sq.ft office in Bellevue
The changes to the AV/IT and NAVCOM systems ensure that the latest technology provides seamless connectivity and navigation capabilities of the ice‑classed hull Oceanco yacht. If anyone can impart a masterclass in combining work and play, it is Gabe Newell, who put it best: “The reason I don’t want to go to bed early is because I’m having fun.”
As of writing, according to AIS data the Tranqulity is docked in Rotterdam.
