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2024 Quilters of the Caribbean Cruise
Join Stitchin' Heaven and Friends on a 7-night Eastern Caribbean Cruise! Cruise and learn from two quilting experts: Raija Salomaa & Toni Steere.
January 28 - February 4, 2024
Miami, FL - Nassau, Bahamas - Perfect Day CocoCay, Bahamas - Labadee, Haiti - Falmouth, Jamaica
Royal Caribbean Oasis Of The Seas
Overview
Overview
Dear Quilting Friends,
We are thrilled to invite you on a 7-night Caribbean cruise, filled with fun, sun, and plenty of quilting adventures! Our cruise will be stopping in Nassau, Bahamas, Perfect Day Cococay, Labadee, Haiti, Falmouth, and Jamaica, offering you the chance to experience the beauty and culture of these tropical destinations.
This is no ordinary cruise, as it is specifically designed for quilting enthusiasts, with world-renowned instructors Raija Salomaa and Toni Steere onboard to lead you through a variety of quilting workshops and classes. Whether you are an experienced quilter or just starting out, you will have the opportunity to learn new techniques and improve your skills in a supportive and relaxed environment.
But that's not all! The Oasis of the Seas Cruise ship is a true floating paradise, packed with exciting activities and amenities for everyone to enjoy. Take a dip in one of the many pools, hit the gym for a workout, or enjoy a delicious meal in one of the many dining options. If you're looking for a little adventure, the ship features zip-lining, rock climbing, and much more.
We can't wait to welcome you on board and make memories that will last a lifetime. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to combine your love for quilting with a tropical vacation. Book your spot today and join us on this unforgettable adventure!
Best Regards,
Deb Luttrell, Owner - Stitchin' Heaven
If you have never been on a quilting cruise you have missed a real treat! Since 2010 Stitchin' Heaven Travel has offered quilt-related cruises and motor coach tours to literally hundreds of satisfied guests. See reviews from our happy travelers here.
How can all this get any better? Here's how!
- Pre-cruise communication from Stitchin‘ Heaven Travel
- SHAG Bag (Stitchin' Heaven Amazing Gifts) valued at over $100 including an exclusive cruise shirt
- Your own dedicated sewing space for the duration of the cruise
- Optional pre-cut Sail ‘n Sew fabric kits
- Every quilting guest can take all the classes offered
- The classroom is open 24/7 for plenty of free time sewing!
- Premier thread provided for onboard projects
- Demonstrations of the latest quilting and sewing products
- Classroom support from Stitchin' Heaven Staff
- Full-size irons and ironing stations will be available in each classroom
- Post cruise guest contact list and group photo will be provided
- A BONUS Grab' n Go project for our Fun Day at Sea
- Prizes, surprises, and a boatload of fun!
Plus ... You'll be sewing on a BERNINA 475QE sewing machine!
That's right! Each quilter will be provided a state-of-the-art BERNINA machine equipped with the extended table and a quarter inch foot. There's no need to bring your sewing machine all the way from home. Visit the BERNINA website to see the amazing features of this great machine!
Consider bringing a friend, your spouse or your family – non-quilters are always welcome to join us and will have many activities to pursue while you are in class.
We look forward to our next adventure together with you!
Instructors
Instructors
Raija Salomaa
Raija was born and raised in Eno, a quaint little town in Eastern Finland. Raija met her soul mate and the love of her life while studying in the US. They are the proud parents of two adult daughters.
Though avidly sewing since elementary school, quilting was something Raija didn’t know anything about prior to moving to the States. The moment she saw her first quilt it was love at first sight.
Raija’s desire to become a quilt pattern designer started almost immediately, and her pattern company – Quilters’ Treasure Chest was born in 2004. Her designs have been featured in multiple national publications. Raija loves tools that make accuracy easier, so it's no surprise she is a certified Studio 180 Design instructor. She enjoys lecturing at guilds and teaching workshops and currently resides in Arkansas.
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Toni Steere
Born and raised in Montana, I’m the youngest of six children. I married a Kansan in 1981 and settled in the beautiful Flinthills of Kansas, where I still reside. In 1987 I was blessed with my daughter Vanessa and she has tripled that blessing with my, of coarse adorable, grandson Brody now six and twin granddaughters Hadley and Brooklyn three years old.
I began Quilting in 1988 and immediately knew I’d found my calling. I opened Prairie Pieces Quilt shop in Council Grove Kansas in 1990 and sold it in fall of 2006 to pursue other avenues in the industry. In 2007 I was offered the opportunity to design fabric collections for Timeless Treasures. I then started Wing and a Prayer Design with my friend and design partner Jennifer Foltz. For the last 16 years we have designed cotton collections and curated Batik groups for our exclusive Timeless BOM programs. In addition to our block of the month, each year we create a faith panel and quilt staying true to our wing and a prayer roots.
Staring in 2017 I became the National Educator for Timeless Treasures Fabrics, my love of traveling and my passion for quilting has been melded into the perfect job, sadly Covid ended the full time travel position. Whether it’s lecturing or teaching I am certainly in my happy place, doing something that feeds your soul.
Today I’m semi retired allowing me Nana time along with enjoying my other hobbies like cooking, tending my flowers, movies and football!
Projects
Projects
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Rays N Rainbows
Rays N' Rainbows is a whimsical quilt design that is sure to remind you of your fabulous quilting cruise to the Caribbean. The coloration of this quilt was specifically chosen to bring in the Caribbean vibe and its rich history along with the beautiful beaches.
This quilt comes together with ease when using Studio 180 Design's V Block and Corner Pop tools. Raija will share her special tips and tricks using these tools so you will feel confident of using these tools time and again.
Finished size of this project is 52" x 68".
NOTE: If you choose to provide your own fabric you will need the Rays N' Rainbows Quilt Pattern.
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Opposites Attract
The Opposite Attracts design gives you an illusion of movement and creates a three-dimensional look that is so easy but looks hard. Quilt is made from base block sizes of 4 1/2” squares and 8 1/2” squares. The 8 1/2-inch hourglass blocks surrounding the outer part of the quilt uses the striped fabric to do the work for you. The quilt was created especially for using the Opposite Attract fabric collection.
My Wing and A Prayer Design business partner Jenny Foltz and I have been designing quilt patterns over 15 years now, to showcase our fabric collections for Timeless Treasures. Right before COVID shutdown Jen and I had been inspired by a black and white quilt expo. Being lovers of color we set out to challenge ourselves to do a black-and-white collection. One of my favorite things is letting the fabric do the work for you, Jen started working on art work for just that kind of collection. Opposites Attract is a collection that is near and dear to my heart. To avoid copyright Jen wrote our quilt stories and tossed them in the Newspaper print. A striped fabric has endless possibilities, the stitch print along with a sketchy blender, we’re used in the opposite attract quilt.
Finished size of this project is 64" x 80".
NOTE: If you choose to provide your own fabric you will need the Opposites Attract Quilt Pattern.
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Optional Sail 'n Sew Fabric Pack
Our incredible Sail 'n Sew fabric pack includes all of the fabrics and patterns for your projects and they are pre-cut so all you need to do is sit down and sew! The price of the Sail ‘n Sew fabric pack is $418.00 and it includes precut fabric for the quilt top for both projects including the borders, binding and pattern.
If you are interested in only one of the kits, you can specify which one on the registration form when you sign up for the cruise. If you would like a Sail ‘n Sew pack, simply select both kits when you fill out the registration form and we'll have it waiting for you on the ship.
If you do not wish to purchase a Sail 'n Sew Fabric Pack, remember to pack your own fabrics. We will not have fabrics available for purchase aboard the ship. You will need to bring your fabric pre-cut and ready for class. You must also bring your pattern or book. You can purchase or download the patterns here: Rays N' Rainbows and Opposites Attract.
Note: View the preliminary 2024 Quilters of the Caribbean Supply List. A finalized supply list will also be sent to you 90 days prior to departure. We will not have a store onboard. Please bring all supplies you will need according to the supply list. We suggest you bring an extra project if you feel like you will finish the class projects and need extra sewing.
Click here to see our general quilting supplies recommendations.
Itinerary
Itinerary
Day 1
Miami, FL
As far as vacation destinations go, Miami tops most sun-seekers’ lists. With its gorgeous beaches, vibrant neighborhoods and melting pot of cultures, the Magic City is the perfect place to spend a few days before your Caribbean island hop. Ahead of your cruise from Miami, jump-start your morning in true Miami style with a Cuban cafecito from a ventanita — a streetside shop window. Then climb the historic lighthouse at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park on quiet Key Biscayne before lounging on the island’s secluded sandy shores. If you’re looking for a bit more action, head to South Beach — home to world-class restaurants, nightlife, shopping and lively beaches, all set against snap-worthy Art Deco buildings. Art lovers who visit Miami can head to Wynwood and explore the neighborhood’s colorful street murals and local galleries. Or take a trip back in time at the Renaissance-style Vizcaya estate, which offers a glimpse into Miami’s dazzling past.
Day 2
Today will be a class day in port. Typically we only do classes on days at sea but there are 4 stops on this cruise so one stop needed to be a class day. Feel free to depart the ship at noon and walk around or you may want to leave class early once the initial instruction for the project is complete.
Nassau, Bahamas
Caribbean charm shines in the Bahamian capital, where you’re never more than a few steps away from rhythmic percussions, appetizing flavors, white-sand beaches, and some of the clearest waters in the world. This picture-perfect paradise was once a pirate’s haven— and you can explore its colorful past of buccaneers, blockade-runners and bootleggers along historical streets and at the three colonial fortresses that line the shores. If you’re looking for a more hands-on maritime adventure, look no further. Cruise to Nassau and swim with stingrays, dive with dolphins, or spot colorful coral on a glass-bottom boat. And just across the bridge is beautiful Paradise Island, home to world-famous luxury hotels and resorts. Spend the day at the famous Atlantis and splash your way through its expansive water park, grab a piña colada at the Marina Village, and spot the hammerhead sharks in Predator Lagoon.
Day 3
Perfect Day Cococay, Bahamas
This isn’t vacation days spent. This is bragging rights earned. Cruise to CocoCay to conquer the tallest waterslide in North America and snap a shot from up to 450 feet up in a helium balloon. Grab a drink at the swim-up bar and soak up the scene in the largest freshwater pool in the Bahamas. Or get a taste of Bora Bora with your own Overwater Cabana. Discover the magic of Perfect Day at CocoCay — only onboard Royal Caribbean® Cruises.
Day 4
Cruising
Quilting Classes in the Conference Center!
Day 5
Labadee, Haiti
Beachside meets mountainside on the shores of Labadee — a Royal Caribbean® private destination on Haiti’s northern coast. Here you’ll find pristine sands, coral reefs and jungle-covered hilltops nestling lagoon-like bays. There’s no shortage of places to relax and recharge across five stretches of beach. Or dial up the thrills on an active adventure like a half-mile-long zip line ride over the ocean. And fascinating culture, history and the natural beauty of Haiti’s spectacular coasts wait to be discovered around every corner. Escape to the Western Caribbean for a wilder way to experience paradise.
Day 6
Falmouth, Jamaica
Cruise to Jamaica, the birthplace of reggae which gave the world the soundtrack of its relaxed lifestyle, good-time-loving people and fearless optimism. As soon as you arrive, you'll sense how much this destination honors the sensibilities of its musical export. Soak your feet in pristine blue waters at Bamboo Beach Club in Ocho Rios. Splash around Dunn's River Falls, where cold, clear mountain water pours down on the rocks in mini-waterfalls. Journey into the rainforest at Mystic Mountain, and take the SkyExplorer chairlift above the treetops to the mountain's summit.
Day 7
Cruising - Fun Day At Sea
New for 2024, we are introducing our Fun Day at Sea in the Conference Center. Join us for a special project and product demonstrations.
Day 8
Miami, FL
Return to Miami, FL
The Ship
The Ship
Oasis Of The Seas
Find new thrills on every deck, like The Perfect Storm℠ waterslides and the tallest slide at sea, Ultimate Abyss℠. Grab bold bites to go at El Loco Fresh® and the first Portside BBQ℠, or cheer on your favorite team at Playmakers℠ Sports Bar & Arcade. This is the amplified Oasis of the Seas® — and the adventure has never been bolder. These engineering wonders take home awards every year for their cutting-edge design, first-of-their-kind attractions, world class dining and accommodations, and unforgettable experiences. From the tallest slide at sea, to culinary concepts that take guests from Japan to Italy to Wonderland, the world’s largest cruise ships are full of adventures guaranteed to wow every kind of explorer.
Conference Room Setup:
On this ship we will be sewing two to a table like the image below.
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Note: View the preliminary 2024 Quilters of the Caribbean Cruise Supply List. A finalized supply list will also be sent to you 90 days prior to departure. We will not have a store onboard. Please bring all supplies you will need according to the supply list. We suggest you bring an extra project if you feel like you will finish the class projects and need extra sewing.
Click here to see our general quilting supplies
Pricing
Pricing
Stateroom's are as follows:
| Room Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Interior Stateroom | $1,599.00* |
| Oceanview Stateroom | $1,799.00* |
| Oceanview w/Balcony Stateroom | $1,999.00* |
*Non-sewing guests will receive a $250 discount.
*Port charges, taxes & fees of $470.78 are not included.
Prices are per person, based on double occupancy.
There is a $350 per person deposit due at registration which will secure your price and availability.
This fee includes your cruise fare PLUS all fees to the teachers, a BERNINA sewing machine for the entire cruise, all associated class activities, and classroom support. You may purchase our precut Sail n Sew kit (supplies are limited) or you are welcome to bring your own precut fabric.
Group travel allows us to provide special touches that are not available on an individual reservation. And unfortunately, discounts from Royal Caribbean are not allowed through our group program. In order to take full benefit from everything Stitchin' Heaven offers on our cruises, you must register through Stitchin 'Heaven Travel. If you have questions or need assistance in changing your individual reservation to a group reservation through Stitchin' Heaven Travel, please let us know.
Travel Information
Travel Information
Cabins
With so much to do onboard, chances are really good that you will just use your cabin for changing and sleeping, but it's nice to know that if you want to spend more time there, you will indeed be comfortable. All standard staterooms are attractively decorated in soft tones with fine light woods and two pieces of artwork on the walls. Each stateroom has two beds that convert to queen-size, a private bath, phone, interactive flat-screen TV, mini-bar, hair dryers and air conditioning/heat controls. Bathrooms are on the small side, but functional, and showers have those wonderful, half-round sliding doors as opposed to clingy curtains. Soap and shampoo are also provided.
Travel to and from Destination
You will be responsible for getting to and from the ship.
Dress
You can see what the cruise line suggests for dress code while on the ship here: https://www.royalcaribbean.com
Gratuities
Gratuities are a part of your cruise expense and will be collected by Stitchin' Heaven. This fee covers everyone who serves you while you are onboard including all onboard staff, dining staff, and your cabin steward. Stitchin' Heaven Travel will then pay these gratuities for our entire group prior to sailing. Therefore, you will be charged $101.50 for gratuities at the time of final payment. Please be aware that an additional gratuity is automatically added to bar tabs. We encourage you to add additional tip for superior service.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included, but is available for your protection from Royal Caribbean in the form of their Travel Protection Program. The cost varies by room type and cruise and both cabin-mates must purchase it separately. In the event insurance is used please be aware that it covers the cost of the cruise only. Sewing package fees are not refunded.
**Insurance fee are due in full when you choose to add it to your reservation
COVID-19 Vaccination Information
The cruise ship companies have worked diligently with the CDC and government officials in order to continue cruising from the US. Our commitment is to provide an enjoyable event with the utmost safety to our guests. Ship protocols will need to be observed at all times and are subject to change at Royal Caribbean’s discretion. These protocols are changing quickly so please check the Royal Caribbean website for the most current information. Thank you for your patience and understanding while we navigate through these uncertain waters.