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2024 Oasis of 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: Chris Hoover and Sandra Coffey.
February 4 - 11, 2024
Miami, FL - Nassau, Bahamas - Perfect Day Cococay - Labadee, Haiti - Falmouth, Jamaica
Royal Caribbean Oasis Of The Seas
Overview
Overview
Hi Cruisin' Quilters!
We are excited to invite you to our upcoming quilting adventure - the Oasis Of Quilting Cruise! This 7-night Caribbean adventure on board the magnificent Oasis Of The Seas, owned by Royal Caribbean, will take you to some of the most beautiful destinations in the Caribbean. With stops in Nassau, Bahamas, Perfect Day Cococay, Labadee, Haiti, and Falmouth, Jamaica, you will have the chance to experience the beauty and culture of the Caribbean while indulging in your passion for quilting.
Joining us on this voyage will be Chris Hoover and Sandara Coffey, two of the most experienced and talented quilting instructors, who will be on board to guide you through the quilting projects and help you improve your skills. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced quilter, you'll find something for you on this cruise.
With so many exciting on-board activities, including entertainment shows, dining, spa treatments, and shopping, you're sure to have a memorable experience. Additionally, our quilting cruise will offer a unique opportunity for you to meet other quilters from all over the world, making new friends, and sharing your passion for quilting.
Don't miss this opportunity to sail the seas while indulging in your favorite hobby. Book your spot today and get ready to experience the Oasis Of Quilting Cruise!
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
Chris Hoover
Chris began quilting in 1989 when she made her first sampler quilt. Sewing a block a week quickly turned into sewing a block a day and sampler quilts and scrappy quilts became her all-consuming passion. “Quilting soothes my soul and has kept me sane many times over the years!” Her eclectic style is inspired by everything from color and texture to architecture and nature and she loves to share her passion speaking and teaching classes for quilt shops and guilds since 1999. Her designs have been seen in Quiltmania, Best Fat Quarter Quilts, Best Weekend Quilts and Quilts from Quiltmaker’s 100 Blocks.
“My designs may look complicated but they are easily broken down into simple elements. I encourage quilters to see beyond the color and fabric in a quilt and to imagine the possibilities of the design – how to make it suit their individual style.” Chris designs under the name Whirligig Designs and you can see more at www.whirligigdesigns.com.
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Sandra Coffey
Sandra's passion is fiber art, especially quilting. She has been sewing since childhood and then made clothing for her entire family after she married. She learned the art of quilting soon after moving to Alaska. Sandra started quilting in 1976 and is always open to new techniques and patterns. She began teaching in 1995 and loves to share the skills needed to pass on this beautiful tradition. She is one of our most beloved local teachers and is Judy Niemeyer Certified!
Sandra joined our Stitchin' Heaven family in 2006 as the Block of the Month manager. She is also a long arm quilter. She does beautiful work quilting many of our shop models, several of which, have been featured in magazines.
Projects
Projects
Naruto Strait
The Naruto Strait quilt is a vibrant and dynamic creation that is sure to add a pop of color to any room. With its eye-catching swirls of bright hues, this quilt is perfect for those who love bold and daring designs. The inspiration for this quilt comes from the tidal whirlpools of Japan's Naruto Strait, where the swirling currents create a mesmerizing dance of water and light.
This quilt is not only beautiful, but also easy to make, with blocks that are constructed in a similar manner to the classic log cabin block. The process involves flipping and sewing the corners to create a block that is both simple and effective. The addition of simple sashing and corner stones enhances the overall look of the quilt, giving it a finished and polished appearance.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced quilter, the Naruto Strait quilt is an ideal project for you. Its straightforward design and construction make it an accessible and enjoyable quilting experience, while its stunning end result will leave you with a finished piece that you will be proud to display in your home or give as a gift.
Finished Quilt Size: 64” x 75”
NOTE: If you choose to provide your own fabric you will need the Naruto Strait Quilt Pattern.
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The Beach House
The Beach House lap quilt is a stunning piece that combines traditional quilting techniques with modern design elements. This fun and easy project was designed by the talented quilting duo, Judy and Bradley Niemeyer, of Quiltworx.com. The foundation blocks used to create the Log Cabin Beach House are part of a series of patterns designed using Quiltworx.com's Log Cabin blocks.
The Beach House lap quilt is designed to teach quilters the fundamental process of using foundation paper to piece a traditional Log Cabin Block. The Circling Geese Units added to the blocks are a unique feature, and were created using a technique that involves cutting away a portion of the block and replacing it with a secondary design element. This technique is not only visually stunning, but it also helps to break up the monotony of the traditional Log Cabin Block.
The Beach House project was designed with the fat-quarter quilter in mind. The quilt is made using a combination of 16 light and 16 dark fabrics, making it a great way to use up scraps or to experiment with new fabric combinations. The result is a stunning quilt that is both beautiful and functional, perfect for snuggling up on the couch, or for adding a pop of color to your bedroom.
Finished Quilt Size: 57 x 57
NOTE: If you choose to provide your own fabric you will need the Beach House 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 $424.00 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: Naruto Strait and The Beach House.
Note: View the preliminary 2024 Oasis Of Quilting 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 Oasis of Quilting 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 $493.80 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.