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2024 Quilting With The Stars Cruise
Embark on an unparalleled quilting and cruising adventure with Stitchin' Heaven on this 7-night Caribbean Quilting Cruise! Immerse yourself in the expertise of quilting luminaries Donna Thomas and Sherri Noel for an enriching experience at sea. Join us for a journey where creativity and relaxation converge against the backdrop of the Caribbean. Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your quilting skills and create lasting memories on this extraordinary cruise!
May 19-26, 2024
Galveston, TX - Roatan, Honduras - Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico - Cozumel, Mexico
Royal Caribbean Harmony Of The Seas
Overview
Overview
Dear Quiltin' Cruisers
We are excited to invite you to join us on a 7-night Western Caribbean Quilting Cruise with renowned quilting instructors Donna Thomas and Sherri Noel. This incredible journey will take place aboard the Harmony of the Seas, a luxurious ship operated by Royal Caribbean. The cruise will depart from Galveston, TX, and make stops in Roatan, Honduras, Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico, and Cozumel, Mexico.
During the cruise, you will have the opportunity to attend quilting classes led by Donna Thomas and Sherri Noel, two highly respected quilting experts. You'll have the chance to work on two different quilting projects, each designed to help you improve your quilting skills and learn new techniques.
In addition to the quilting classes, you'll have access to all of the amazing amenities on the Harmony of the Seas. From fine dining to world-class entertainment, there's something for everyone on board. And of course, you'll have plenty of time to explore the beautiful ports of call on this Western Caribbean itinerary.
This quilting cruise is the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind, and connect with other quilting enthusiasts while enjoying a luxurious vacation. Whether you're a seasoned quilter or just starting out, you're sure to have a fantastic time.
Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity to combine your love of quilting with a fabulous Caribbean vacation. Book your spot on the Western Caribbean Quilting Cruise today! We can't wait to see you on board.
Cheers,
- 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
Donna Thomas
Donna Lynn Thomas has been an avid sewer since the age of four and discovered her passion for quilting in 1975. With over 40 years of experience, she began teaching quilting in 1981 and has since taught at various guilds throughout the world, including a German quilt shop during her time as an Army wife living in Germany for four years. After leaving the Army, Donna and her husband settled in Kansas where she continues to teach nationally, sharing her love and expertise with others.
Donna is a prolific author, having written 14 titles with Martingale, one self-published book, and one with Kansas City Star. She has also contributed articles on various quilt-related subjects to numerous publications, showcasing her knowledge and passion for the craft. You can even see Donna on Craftsy and several QNN-TV episodes.
Believing that piecing quilts should be a pleasure, not a fight, Donna's focus is on skills mastery and techniques that enable her students to enjoy frustration-free sewing. She presents the essentials of these skills in her Craftsy class, Piece Like a Pro, and her two most recent books, Quiltmaking Essentials 1 and 2. Donna is also the talented designer of the Omnigrip On-Point Ruler™ and its companion ruler, the On-Point Square™, which allow quilters to produce squares, strips, rectangles, and half-square triangle units that measure neatly on the diagonal without any math.
In her spare time, Donna and her husband provide staff assistance to three cats and a sunny golden retriever. With her wealth of experience, passion for quilting, and focus on frustration-free sewing, Donna Lynn Thomas is truly a quilting expert to be admired.
Sherri Noel
Sherri Noel is a talented and passionate quilter with a creative spirit. For several years, she has been designing her own quilts and sharing her design talents and patterns through her website, RebeccaMaeDesigns.com, which is named after her daughters. As a quilt pattern designer, teacher, and author of the book Text It!, quilts and pillows with something to say, Sherri is dedicated to sharing her love and expertise with others.
Sherri is best known for her Block of the Month quilt-a-longs, her Dear Daughter BOM quilt, Scandinavian designs, and whimsical style. She believes that quilting is a form of creative expression and often adds wool, pearl cotton, and hand embroidery to her quilts for depth and texture. Her designs and quilts have been published in several books and magazines, including her favorite magazine, Quiltmania.
As a passionate member of the sewing community, Sherri enjoys sharing her talents and knowledge with others. You can find her at RebeccaMaeDesigns.com or on Instagram at RebeccaMaeDesigns. With her wealth of creativity and expertise in quilt design and teaching, Sherri Noel is truly a valuable member of the quilting world.
Projects
Projects
The Atomic Starburst Quilt
The Atomic Starburst Quilt Kit is the perfect blend of classic and modern quilting techniques, resulting in a vibrant and eye-catching finished product. Measuring 66” x 73”, this quilt is the ideal size for a cozy lap blanket or decorative wall hanging.
The foundation of the Atomic Starburst Quilt is its stunning Starburst blocks, which are made using the popular foundation paper piecing technique. This method ensures that the blocks are precisely and accurately constructed, resulting in a visually stunning design. The Starburst blocks are then combined with traditional piecing methods to create a cohesive and balanced look.
The color palette for the Atomic Starburst Quilt is inspired by the mid-century modern design aesthetic, with bold and bright colors that will add a pop of color to any room.
Not only is the Atomic Starburst Quilt Kit a beautiful and unique addition to any home, it also makes for a rewarding and enjoyable quilting project. Whether you are an experienced quilter or just starting out, this kit is the perfect way to expand your skills.
Finished Size: 66” x 73”
5 yards of coordinated backing fabric will be needed.
NOTE: If you choose to provide your own fabric you will need the Atomic Starburst pattern.
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Event Horizon Quilt
The Event Horizon Quilt Kit, designed by the talented Giucy Giuce, is a stunning contemporary quilt that will add a burst of color to any space. Measuring 55” x 66”, this quilt is the perfect size for a dorm bed coverlet or a cozy throw blanket.
The design of the Event Horizon Quilt features an array of easily pieced Flying Geese blocks, which are arranged in a color-wheel order to create a dazzling rainbow effect. The use of bright and bold colors enhances the geometric pattern of the Flying Geese blocks, resulting in a visually stunning design that is sure to impress.
Not only is the Event Horizon Quilt a beautiful addition to any space, it is also a joy to create. As an added bonus, this quilt is a perfect project for quilters of all skill levels. Whether you are a seasoned pro or just starting out, the easily pieced Flying Geese blocks make this quilt a fun and rewarding project to work on.
Finished Size: 55” x 66”
4 yards of coordinated backing fabric will be needed.
NOTE: If you choose to provide your own fabric you will need the Event Horizon 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 $290.00 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 the patterns here: Atomic Starburstand Event Horizon.
Note: View the preliminary 2024 Quilting with the Stars Cruise Supply List. A finalized supply list will 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
Galveston, TX
Galveston is a destination that promises big thrills and excitement even before you set foot onboard your cruise ship. This fun-loving seaside city in Texas is a favorite vacation spot among families, thanks to its unique blend of history, natural beauty, and warm southern hospitality. Start your visit with a hearty Texas-style breakfast in the historic Strand District, the pulsing heart of the city and a hub of antique shops, restaurants, and bars. Take a walk along the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, home to numerous family-friendly rides, games, and other attractions. Then, immerse yourself in Galveston's illustrious history with a scenic stroll past well-preserved Victorian mansions and centuries-old landmark buildings. A visit to Galveston wouldn't be complete without exploring the city's museums, which host exhibits on a variety of fascinating topics - from Galveston's history with oil and railroads to the pirates and corsairs that haunt the Gulf Coast's rich and colorful past. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or just some good old-fashioned family fun, Galveston has something for everyone.
Day 2
Cruising
Quilting Classes in the Conference Center!
Day 3
Cruising
Quilting Classes in the Conference Center!
Day 4
Roatan, Honduras
Roatán is a captivating destination that boasts a rich blend of cultures and traditions that are sure to enchant anyone. With its mangrove forests, dense jungles, and pristine white-sand beaches, you'll be tempted to stay forever. Every year, divers and snorkelers from all over the world flock to this largest of Honduras' Bay Islands to experience the world's second-largest barrier reef firsthand. Roatán cruises offer access to laid-back beach towns and secluded shores, where you can unwind and relax in idyllic surroundings. On the Big Island, you can mingle with monkeys and "Jesus" lizards, snorkel with stingrays, and zipline through rainforest canopies. If you're in search of culture, the island's unique and vibrant blend is sure to satisfy. It is home to ex-pat sun-seekers, Hondurans from the mainland, descendants of European settlers, and Garífuna, whose Afro-Carib-Arawak heritage still flavors centuries-old communities like Punta Gorda. Roatán promises a magical experience that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and inspired. Don't miss out on the adventure of a lifetime in Roatán. Book your Roatán cruise today and embark on an unforgettable journey.
Day 5
Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico
Costa Maya is a destination that blends the richness of the past with the excitement of the present. As you cruise to Costa Maya, get ready to discover ancient Maya ruins and enigmatic jungles that are just waiting to be explored, alongside exclusive beach clubs and trendy restaurants all in one place. This 250 square mile paradise is packed with entertainment and history, located just 30 miles south of Cancun. Don't miss the chance to explore the Great Maya Reef, the second-largest coral reef in the world, and an absolute must-see spot for snorkelers. For a relaxing break, head to the charming port village of Mahahual, where you can unwind with an ice-cold michelada, a spicy beer cocktail, in hand. For a dose of culture, visit the Kohunlick ruins and marvel at the famous Temple of the Masks. Costa Maya promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you enchanted and inspired.
Day 6
Cozumel, Mexico
Cozumel is an idyllic destination that promises unforgettable adventures. With its thriving tropical reefs, crystal-clear waters, and fascinating ancient ruins, there is something for everyone here. As you cruise to Cozumel, make sure to visit Chankanaab National Park, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant underwater world of colorful reefs and tropical fish that make this island a top diving spot. Alternatively, take a trip back in time with a visit to the towering Maya ruins of Tulum. After a day of exploration, indulge in a soothing beachside massage at Playa Mia. Whether you're a culture enthusiast or a sun-worshipper, Cozumel offers a plethora of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. Don't miss out on the adventure of a lifetime in Cozumel.
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
Galveston, TX
Return to Galveston, Texas.
The Ship
The Ship
Harmony of the Seas
What do you get when you combine one of the biggest ships in the world with some of the boldest thrills at sea? A gravity defying, status-quo denying, electrifying expedition onboard Harmony of the Seas® that will set a new standard for family vacations. From first-at-sea feats to the favorites you know and love, you’ll find so many ways to make memories onboard — like the tallest slide at sea, Ultimate Abyss℠, deck-defying stunts at the AquaTheater, and the robot-helmed Bionic Bar. Not to mention dazzling Broadway performances and globetrotting gastronomic experiences that go from Asia to the Mediterranean, and beyond.
Conference Room Setup:
On this ship we will be sewing two to a table like the image below.
Note: View the preliminary 2024 Quilting with the Stars Cruise Supply List. A finalized supply list will 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.
Pricing
Pricing
Stateroom's are as follows:
| Room Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Interior Stateroom | $1,499.00* |
| Oceanview Stateroom | $1,699.00* |
| Oceanview w/Balcony Stateroom | $1,899.00* |
*Non-sewing guests will receive a $250 discount.
*Port charges, taxes & fees of $457.05 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 cabinmates 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.