The Women Who Keep Yachting Moving Forward

Yachting isn’t just about destinations and five-star service. It’s about the people who make it all happen. And at Northrop & Johnson, we’re lucky to have some seriously incredible women leading the way. From chief stews crafting personalized guest experiences to captains charting courses across the globe, these women bring skill and a whole lot of passion to the industry.

They’re not just in our offices; they’re out there. On deck, below deck, and behind the scenes, they make sure every detail is perfect. They’ve built careers on the water, traveled the world, and made their mark in an industry that demands both resilience and finesse.

In honor of International Women’s Day, we’re celebrating the women who bring their A-game to yachting every single day.

Ann Landry – Retired Northrop & Johnson Charter Broker

Ann Landry is a true trailblazer with a career that has spanned NASA, the ski industry, and luxury yachting. From running a lab for the Apollo astronauts to managing mountain operations in Aspen and eventually becoming a top charter broker, Ann has never been afraid to take bold leaps. She spent over 30 years in yachting—15 of them at Northrop & Johnson—where she built a reputation for expertise and integrity. Her journey is a testament to resilience, curiosity, and the power of saying ‘yes’ to new opportunities. Now retired, Ann continues to inspire others with her story and her belief that every day is an opportunity to learn and explore. Her advice for other women looking to carve their own path? “Listen. Pay attention. You have no idea who’s going to say what you need to hear that’s going to just catapult you into the next phase of your life and career.”

Sacha Williams – Global Charter Marketing Director, Northrop & Johnson

Sacha is a powerhouse in the yachting world, known for her sharp business sense, creativity, and passion for charter. She got her start in the industry almost by accident, but once she found yachting, she never looked back. From working with top brokers at Edmiston to leading global charter fleets, she’s built a career on strategy, and a deep understanding of what makes a memorable yacht experience. Sacha is all about innovation, teamwork, and setting the bar higher every day. Her advice? “Be bold, be prepared, and don’t be afraid to do things your own way.”

Ann Avery – Yacht Broker, Northrop & Johnson

Ann Avery is a lifelong adventurer, a pioneering captain, and a respected yacht broker with an unshakable belief in the power of connection—both with people and the ocean. From captaining sailboats when few women were at the helm to becoming a leading voice in brokerage, she’s always embraced challenges with curiosity and confidence. Her career has been driven by a passion for helping others experience the transformative magic of life at sea. Now, Ann is focused on coaching and mentorship, guiding women to step into leadership with authenticity, intuition, and a commitment to creating a more connected, conscious world.

Captain Karen Holtan – GALE WINDS

Captain Karen Holtan is a seasoned leader in the yachting industry with a career that began in scuba diving before she transitioned to captaining yachts. Starting as a dive instructor on liveaboard charter boats, she worked her way up through determination and hands-on experience in every aspect of vessel operations. As one of the few female captains when she started, Karen has paved the way for more women in the industry, mentoring and supporting the next generation. Known for her calm leadership and ability to earn the trust of her crew, she believes that success in yachting comes from taking initiative, constantly learning, and never waiting for opportunities to be handed to you.

Rochelle Stebbing – Second Officer, ALFA NERO

One of the most well-traveled crew members aboard the legendary ALFA NERO, Rochelle’s path to yachting took her across continents and industries. Originally drawn to hospitality, she found her true passion on deck, where she now thrives as a second officer. Whether navigating the world’s most stunning coastlines or playing guitar under the stars, Rochelle brings energy, expertise, and a deep love for the sea to every voyage.

France Saint-Sever – Chief Stew, MAREA LA NAUTICA

Growing up in the Caribbean paradise of St. Martin, France was destined for a life at sea. Fluent in both French and English, she has turned her natural affinity for the maritime world into a thriving career. With years of experience cruising The Bahamas, Caribbean, and Mediterranean, France brings warmth, dedication, and an eye for detail to every charter. Her goal? To make each guest’s experience unforgettable, blending professionalism with a sense of fun.

Melissa “Mel” Dillon – Chief Stew, SANTOSH

Born and raised by the beach in Sydney, Mel’s love for the water started young. Her career has taken her across the globe, from London to Canada, where she fine-tuned her hospitality skills. Now a chief stew on board SANTOSH, Mel’s enthusiasm for service is matched only by her love for adventure—whether she’s snowboarding, hiking, or out on the water. With her approachable and friendly nature, she ensures every guest feels right at home.

Elodie Davis – Chief Stew, VIVACE

From the mountains of New England to the far reaches of the South Pacific, Elodie has charted an impressive course in yachting. A lover of travel, fresh cuisine, and impeccable service, she has made a name for herself as a stewardess with a gift for creating warm and welcoming onboard experiences. Her passion for entertaining shines through in every detail, ensuring guests leave with lifelong memories.

Catherine “Cat” Sandell & Nadine Coronado – Rotational Chief Stews, SEALION

Cat, a South African with a deep love for travel and social connection, has spent 14 years mastering the art of service on superyachts. A trained psychologist turned yachting pro, she balances elegance with an adventurous spirit, managing a thriving Airbnb business in Cape Town when she’s not at sea.

Nadine, born in Germany to Spanish parents, has hospitality woven into her DNA. Her career spans hotels, restaurants, cruise ships, and finally, the world of yachting, where she has excelled as a chief stew since 2012. With a passion for marine life, she took time off to become a scuba instructor before returning to luxury hospitality at sea, delivering a guest experience that’s second to none.

Michelle Riherd & Abigail “Abbey” Pettinger – Rotational Chief Stews, KING BABY

Michelle, a Michigan native, found her calling in yachting after swapping spring break for a life on the water. Known for her charisma, meticulous service, and an infectious smile, she leads the interior team with a perfect mix of charm and professionalism.

Originally from Chicago, Abbey fell in love with yachting while studying abroad in Palma de Mallorca. With a background in event management and tourism, she brings an energetic, lighthearted touch to KING BABY, making every charter an experience to remember. Whether pulling off the perfect prank or curating an adventure, Abbey ensures the fun never stops.

Gaynor Frost – Chief Stew, ‘H

A former commercial interior designer turned chief stewardess, Gaynor seamlessly blends creativity with precision. Growing up in Massachusetts, she honed her design expertise at RISD before swapping city life for the seas. Now, she leads her team with grace and an impeccable eye for detail, ensuring that service and ambiance on board ‘H are nothing short of flawless.

Stacey Barrett – Chief Stew, VALINOR

Durban-born Stacey brings a personal touch to every charter, crafting bespoke guest experiences, from hand-crafted cocktails to unforgettable themed events. With a deep love for the ocean and an innate ability to make every moment special, she transforms ordinary charters into extraordinary journeys.

At Northrop & Johnson, we’re proud to work alongside these powerhouse women, and we know the industry wouldn’t be the same without them.