Colonia is a new game by Dirk Henn and published by Queen Games. The game is really nicely presented (as is normal for Queen) with loads of bits. Players have a team of workers (21 in a six player game) who are allocated between gathering resources, converting those resources into goods, shipping those goods to market and using the proceeds to purchase artifacts (which equate to victory points). Although 21 pieces seems a lot, they don't go that far as, once allocated, they are tied up for a whole round. Early turn order seemsreally important but, as Steve discovered, it's no guarantee of being able to do what you want. He suffered badly from a ship sailing early, just before he was about to load up some crucial goods.

Our game was interesting but went on a bit too long. However, I think it's one to try again with fewer players as the greater number of workers should make it just a bit easier to accomplish what you are planning.