NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., Feb 11, 2009 -- Ambassadors International, Inc., parent company of Windstar Cruises, today announced plans to sell the company's principal non-Windstar assets, replace the current senior management team, and consolidate operations in Seattle.

Joe Ueberroth, current CEO, stated, "The Board and management are confident in the strategy to focus all of our capital and efforts on Windstar Cruises and the small ship luxury segment. Further, we believe that Windstar has the most potential upside for our shareholders and a successful sale of our other businesses provides the Company stability in a difficult economy."

The businesses to be sold by include the Company's marine division, including its marina construction and marine operations businesses, and its travel and events division.

Ambassadors also announced effective today that Art Rodney, a thirty year cruise veteran, replaces Joe Ueberroth as the Chairman of the Board.

The 66-year-old Rodney served as CFO and President of Princess Cruises from 1970 to 1986. He then created Crystal Cruises for Japanese shipping company NYK, and served as Crystal's President from 1987 until 1994. In 1994, Rodney joined The Walt Disney Company and served as President of Disney Cruise Line until the end of 1999. From 2000, he has worked as an independent consultant.

Further changes include the current executive team in Newport Beach, CA transitioning out of the company over the next few months. Ambassadors reports that it has already commenced a search for experienced cruise executives to replace Mr. Ueberroth as CEO and Laura Tuthill as CFO.

"I have enjoyed working with Joe over the last year and respect his resolve to put shareowner interest ahead of his personal interest." commented Rodney. "The Board requested Joe's participation in the bidding process for our marine group, since he knows the business well and can move quickly, although we also will actively solicit bids from other interested parties."

In light of Ueberroth's anticipated participation in the marine division bidding process, the Board of Directors has formed a special committee to be advised by Stephens, Inc., a boutique investment bank based in Little Rock, Arkansas. Stephens will also be assisting in the sale of Ambassadors' non-cruise assets.

Additionally, cruise and corporate headquarters will be consolidated in Seattle, WA over the next several months.