How I got here
Annabell´s connection to the world of yachts began before she can even remember. In 1970, her grandparents founded the family business; in 1989, her father took over its leadership — and before she had even completed her first year of life, Annabell was already on board an Elegance Yacht.
Throughout her childhood, she and her brother were regular fixtures at trade shows, and the family's summers were mostly spent on or by the sea. She attended an international school and spent two years at an English boarding school — experiences that broadened her perspective early on.
Before joining the family business, Annabell first wanted to find her own way. She completed a dual degree program with a major German fashion group, where — not least because of the six-day work week — she developed the strong work ethic that continues to define her today. Her partner had already joined the family business before her; after completing her studies, Annabell followed, taking on the build-out and leadership of the marketing and events department while simultaneously building the charter division from the ground up.
For Annabell, her work means far more than organization and representation. In marketing, it's the company's story that matters most to her — and how to carry it authentically to the outside world. In charter, it's the personal care of clients, from the very first inquiry to their return from a trip on board, that she values most.
CARRYING THE THIRD GENERATION FORWARD, HER WAY
The family history behind the company means a great deal to Annabell. It is a great honor for her to follow in her parents' and grandparents' footsteps and, together with her partner, continue building on the legacy founded in 1970 — not merely as a professional task, but as a personal commitment.
At the same time, it matters to her not simply to carry things on, but to shape the company with her own signature. One of her most visible contributions to date has been leading the design and rollout of the company's new brand identity, launched in September 2026 — a project that reflects the fresh energy of the third generation and positions the company for the future.
Annabell is convinced that tradition and renewal are not at odds, but together form the foundation for the company's future: respect for what her grandparents began in 1970 and what her parents developed and grew over the decades, combined with her own outlook on what comes next.
What began in 1970 and passed to the second generation in 1989, she now carries forward into the third generation alongside her partner — with the clear goal of giving the family business a personal face for years to come.
"Tradition and evolution aren't at odds for me – together, they form the foundation for our family business's future.“
Annabell Drettmann
CHARTER, MARKETING & EVENTS