Columbus Classic 80 approaches launch

Italian yard Palumbo Group has revealed that its in-build Columbus Classic 80 metre superyacht has left the construction shed in preparation for her imminent, official launch.

Sold in November 2016, this new five-deck superyacht has been named Dragon and is the biggest superyacht the yard has ever produced.

Comprised of a steel hull and aluminium superstructure, this 79.5 metre project boasts exterior styling and naval architecture from Hydro Tec. The yard describes the yacht's lines as having an "almost Renaissance inspiration", while at the same time evoking the ocean liners of the 1950s and 60s.

Francesco Guida will create the décor for the 2,150GT interiors, which will incorporate several high-quality finishes with the aim of achieving an atmosphere of elegant sobriety.Key features on board the Columbus Classic 80 include a huge superyacht sundeck with a seven-metre counter-current swimming pool that is fed by a waterfall. This creates a spectacular partition between the main pool and the hydro-massage area, which will be enclosed on three sides by the superyacht mast.

Accommodation is for 12 guests split across eight double cabins, including a dedicated owner's deck, while the crew quarters features its own superyacht gym and accommodation for up to 19 people.A glass-sided superyacht elevator will provide easy access between all five decks, and a pair of side-loading garages will allow the Columbus Classic 80 to carry a ten metre tender and a 7.5 metre tender.

Power will come from a pair of 3,044hp MTU 16V4000 M63L engines for a top speed of 16.5 knots. When trimmed back to 12 knots, the Columbus Classic 80 will boast a maximum range of 6,000 nautical miles, thanks to a total fuel capacity of 215,000 litres, while a fin stabilisation system will ensure a smooth cruising experience.