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2024 Castaways Quilting Cruise
Quilting and cruising are better than ever so join Stitchin' Heaven on this 7-night Western Caribbean Cruise! Cruise and learn from two quilting experts: Marilyn Foreman and Tiffany Hayes.
May 5-12, 2024
Galveston, TX - Roatan, Honduras - Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico - Cozumel, Mexico
Royal Caribbean Harmony Of The Seas
Overview
Overview
Ahoy there, fellow quilting enthusiasts!
What better way to celebrate Cinco De Mayo than embarking on a cruise from Galveston, TX that includes two stops in Mexico? Departing on May 5th, this exciting adventure offers the perfect opportunity to explore the vibrant cultures and rich histories of Mexico's beautiful coastal cities. From the lively tropical reefs and crystal-clear waters of Cozumel to the ancient ruins and mysterious jungles of Costa Maya, you'll be swept away by the beauty and charm of these breathtaking destinations. Our ship will be making stops at three amazing ports of call: Roatan (Honduras), Puerto Costa Maya (Mexico), and Cozumel (Mexico).
But wait, that's not all! We've got two incredibly talented instructors, Marilyn Foreman and Tiffany Hayes, on board to teach you all sorts of quilting techniques and skills. They'll be guiding you in creating beautiful quilt projects selected specifically for this cruise.
This cruise is going to be the perfect mix of creativity and relaxation, with plenty of opportunities to meet new quilting friends and share your love of quilting. And let's not forget the stunning views of the Caribbean sea and the amazing ports we'll be visiting.
So pack your bags (and your fabric stash), and join us on this epic adventure. You won't want to miss out on this opportunity to improve your quilting skills and have the time of your life.
Thank you for being a part of our quilting community, and we can't wait to see you on board!
Bon voyage,
- 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
Marilyn Foreman
Marilyn Foreman is a highly accomplished quilter, pattern designer, and author based in a suburb of St. Paul, Minnesota. With over 20 years of experience in the quilting world, Marilyn founded her own pattern company, Quilt Moments, in 2006, which has become a highly popular brand in the quilting community.
Marilyn's designs have been featured in numerous Block of the Month programs hosted by Stitchin' Heaven, and she has published countless patterns, as well as a book titled “Kaleidoscope Symphony”. Additionally, Marilyn offers a Craftsy online class called “Quilted Kaleidoscopes” for those interested in learning her unique techniques.
As a passionate quilter and traveler, Marilyn loves sharing her expertise and teaching others how to design stunning quilts that appear complicated yet feature basic piecing techniques. With a background in analysis, she prides herself on making her patterns as versatile as possible, offering a variety of sizes and fabric options to her clients.
Marilyn's quilts often feature a wide range of fabrics, and she allows the fabric elements to do the work to create truly stunning results. Her techniques, which include using the popular Twister tools (she's also the owner of Twister Sisters at www.TwisterSistersDesigns.com), are both addictive and fun.
To learn more about Marilyn and her work, visit her website at www.QuiltMoments.com or follow her on Instagram at @QuiltMoments.
Tiffany Hayes
Tiffany Hayes is an experienced quilter with a deep passion for designing, piecing, hand applique, and machine quilting. With many years of experience in quilting and teaching, Tiffany has become a respected figure in the quilting community, with her work appearing in numerous publications including Quilter’s World Magazine, Keepsake Quilting, and Connecting Threads.
Tiffany's love for teaching has led her to collaborate with various fabric companies, creating fabric collection-specific quilt patterns that inspire quilters of all levels. She is the proud developer of The Goddess Tool, The 60º Triangle Tool, The 90º Triangle Tool, and more in the works. Her popular Block of the Month patterns often feature The Goddess Tool.
Tiffany and her husband Scott, a machine quilter, are the proud owners of a Handi Quilter Long Arm. Tiffany designs and pieces while Scott creates digitized machine quilting designs that match her original quilt patterns. Under the name Needle in a Hayes Stack, Tiffany designs and publishes her patterns.
Tiffany's passion for quilting shines through in her work, and she proudly declares herself a Quilt Addict. To learn more about Tiffany and her work, visit her website at www.NeedleinaHayesStack.biz.
Projects
Projects
Entwined
Create a stunning quilt project with Entwined - a beautiful quilt featuring elegant interlocking blocks that give the illusion of complexity but are actually pieced together with just three easy units.
With endless possibilities for color combinations, you can make it scrappy or choose just a few fabrics to create your perfect quilt. You'll love how easily you can create a completely unique look by playing around with different background fabrics or border styles.
Whether you're a seasoned quilter or just starting out, Entwined is the perfect project to showcase your skills and create a stunning quilt that you'll treasure for years to come. With a fun and easy piecing technique, you'll have a blast bringing this project to life.
Finished Size: 72” x 86”
6 yards of coordinated backing fabric will be needed.
NOTE: If you choose to provide your own fabric you will need the Entwined pattern.
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Caribbean Island Vibes
Get ready to bring the vibrant colors and laid-back vibes of the Caribbean to your quilting with the Caribbean Island Vibes quilt kit!
Featuring a fun and playful design that's perfect for quilters of all levels, this kit will transport you to an island paradise. With its bold colors and eye-catching design, the Caribbean Island Vibes quilt is sure to be a showstopper in any space.
Best of all, the kit includes everything you need to create your own Caribbean-inspired masterpiece, including fabric and a pattern with easy-to-follow instructions. So whether you're an experienced quilter or just starting out, you'll have everything you need to bring your vision to life.
Finished Size: 80” x 80”
6 yards of coordinated backing fabric will be needed.
NOTE: If you choose to provide your own fabric you will need the Caribbean Island Vibes 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 $350.00 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: Entwined and Caribbean Island Vibes.
Note: View the preliminary 2024 Castaways Quilting 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 Castaways Quilting 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.