Italian builder Palumbo has begun construction of a new 60m (197ft) RINA Green Star class yacht — the Columbus 199.



The Naples-based yard expects to launch the eco-friendly full-displacement craft in 2012. Italian design firm Hydro Tec has provided the naval architecture and exterior design.



Five decks high — and fitted with a bulbous bow and twin MTU 16V 4000 M60 diesel engines — the Columbus 199 should have a top speed of 17kt, and a range of 5,000nm at 14kt.



Palumbo is overseeing the interior, which includes six guest staterooms plus the owner’s suite. Instead of being on the main deck, the owner’s suite is aft on the same deck as the wheelhouse — providing excellent views and occupying the full beam.



Two VIP staterooms are granted the space it would have taken on the main deck, while the rest of the guest cabins are below decks. An enclosed gym and an alfresco bar accompany teak-decked sunning space on the upper deck, one level above the owner’s suite.



The ever-popular ‘beach club’ area — formed when the transom is lowered and the tender offloaded — can be set up with lounge chairs. Guests will be tended to by 13 crew and the captain, whose stateroom is just aft of the wheelhouse.



The Columbus 199 is for sale at €32.5 million ($40.6 million).