Why Google’s ex-CEO wants to buy a shipyard smaller than his superyacht
Former Google CEO Eric Schmidt is planning to acquire the Spanish shipyard Metalships & Docks through his company, Oyster Ocean LLC. The acquisition is intended to support his oceanographic research initiatives rather than serve as a traditional commercial investment.
Why it matters
This move highlights the growing trend of billionaire-led private investment in scientific research infrastructure and specialized maritime technology.
Google ex-CEO Eric Schmidt is reportedly looking to buy a Spanish shipyard whose annual revenue is believed to be lower than the annual cost of operating his luxury superyacht, Whisper. According to Spanish media reports, Eric Schmidt is looking to acquire Metalships & Docks, a shipyard in Vigo, Spain, through his company Oyster Ocean LLC. While the business generated just over $10 million in revenue in 2025, the reported move is seen as a strategic investment to support Schmidt's ocean research ambitions rather than a financial acquisition. Google ex-CEO Eric Schmidt's shipyard purchase plan linked to ocean researchAs mentioned above, the acquisition would be made through Oyster Ocean LLC, a Delaware-registered company incorporated in January 2026.
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