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2025 Quilters of the Caribbean Quilting Cruise
Experience the ultimate blend of quilting and cruising excellence with Stitchin' Heaven on a 7-night Western Caribbean Cruise! Join quilting maestros Brenda Henning and Melissa Corry for an unforgettable journey of creativity and relaxation.
January 26 - February 2, 2025
Miami, FL - Perfect Day Cococay, Bahamas - Nassau, Bahamas - Falmouth, Jamaica - Labadee, Haiti
Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas
Overview
Overview
Ahoy, Quilters of the Caribbean!
Get ready to embark on the "Quilters of the Caribbean Quilting Cruise" aboard the magnificent Symphony of the Seas, departing from Miami in January 2025. Join us for a week of stitching, cruising, and Caribbean charm as we explore the ports of Perfect Day Cococay, Nassau, Falmouth, and Labadee. Let quilting maestros Brenda Henning and Melissa Corry guide you through exclusive workshops amidst the luxury of the high seas. Indulge in gourmet dining, impeccable service, and a quilting camaraderie that will warm your creative heart. Don't miss the boat on this quilting fiesta; secure your spot for a journey of stitches and sunshine!
Yo-ho-ho and happy quilting!
- 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
Brenda Henning
Brenda Henning is a compulsive quiltmaker with a fondness for traditional design and a desire to incorporate today's speed-piecing techniques with yesterday's well-loved patterns. Brenda's machine sewing experience began at the early age of 10 on her grandmother's treadle sewing machine with the first quilt following at age 14. Brenda became a compulsive quilter in the mid-80s, and began teaching quiltmaking in 1988, when her third child was an infant. Brenda is the author of numerous books and individual patterns available under the label Bear Paw Productions.
Brenda lives in Anchorage, Alaska, with her husband, Richard. Two Rottweilers, Kyra and Blue, share copious quantities of black dog hair with every quilt that leaves the premises. Brenda teaches for shops and guilds throughout Alaska and the United States.
Melissa Corry
Melissa started quilting as a hobby in 2005 but since starting her blog, Happy Quilting, in 2010 her hobby has turned into a passion. Her passion for quiltinghas led to creating her own designs that she shares as tutorials, published works, a pattern line, and even her own books. Melissa loves designing and finds inspiration in just about everything and anything. Melissa, her husband and their five children live in Cedar City, Utah. To see more of her daily quilting adventures check out her blog Happy Quilting. (www.happyquiltingmelissa.com)
Projects
Projects
Spools
Introducing "Spools," a captivating 72” x 80” quilt that transcends the ordinary. Created using a simple strip piecing method, this quilt is a delight for both seasoned quilters and beginners alike. Brenda's expert guidance ensures a swift and satisfying experience as pre-cut strips effortlessly come together to form a harmonious blend of colors and patterns.
Spools isn't just a project; it's a joyful journey into the world of quilting, where creativity knows no bounds. With its inviting simplicity and easy-going charm, this quilt promises both novices and experienced quilters a gratifying adventure. Dive into the art of quilting with Spools—a masterpiece that turns the seemingly complex into an enjoyable and impressive endeavor.
Finished Size: 72" x 80"
*Fabrics will be matched as closely as possible based on fabric availability at the time of ordering.
5 yards of coordinated backing fabric will be needed.
NOTE: You will also need the Strip Therapy 3 Pattern Book which is sold separately.
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Summer Breeze
Welcome the "Summer Breeze," a lap-sized quilt measuring 60” x 74” that promises to sweep you away on a tranquil sewing journey. This enchanting pattern captures the essence of a cool summer day, inspiring a frenzy of creative energy. Designed to please, "Summer Breeze" is an ideal project for intermediate quilters and beyond, offering a perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication.
Unlock the secrets of this stunning quilt with step-by-step instructions that make cutting, piecing, and finishing a breeze. Let the easy-to-follow guidance empower your quilting experience, turning a simple summer day into a masterpiece of fabric and thread. "Summer Breeze" invites you to embrace the joy of quilting with a pattern that effortlessly combines beauty and approachability, ensuring a satisfying project for quilters of various skill levels.
Finished Size: 60" x 74"
*Fabrics will be matched as closely as possible based on fabric availability at the time of ordering.
4 yards of coordinated backing fabric will be needed.
NOTE: If you choose to provide your own fabric you will need the Summer Breeze 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 $289.90 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: Rainbow Radiance and Whirlwind.
Note: View the preliminary 2025 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 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
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 3
Nassau, Bahamas
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.
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 4
Cruising
Quilting Classes in the Conference Center!
Day 5
Falmouth, Jamaica
Nestled right between Montego Bay and Ocho Rios, Falmouth is the perfect backdrop for discovery in Jamaica during your cruise— but there’s lots to do right there. For a relaxing ride along the shoreline, hop on horseback in Chukkah Beach. Cruise to Falmouth and head to the Water Square and jam out with the locals to live reggae. Culture cravers can get their fix during high tea at the historical Good Hope Estate overlooking the Queen of Spain Valley. And a trip to Falmouth wouldn’t be complete without chowing down on fiery jerk chicken and rum cake, two local favorites.
Day 6
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 7
Cruising
Quilting Classes in the Conference Center!
Day 8
Miami, FL
Return to Miami, FL
The Ship
The Ship
Symphony of the Seas
Go big on bold when you sail aboard one of the largest cruise ships in the world.
Get ready for a perception remixing, memory maxing mic drop — Symphony of the Seas® is all that and more. It’s your favorite onboard hits, including the ten-story test of courage, Ultimate Abyss℠ and twin FlowRider® surf simulators, plus revolutionary firsts, like glow-in-the-dark laser tag. And deck-defying attractions aren’t the only things to look forward to when you sail onboard this Oasis Class ship. Symphony of the Seas® is also loaded with delicious ways to tempt your taste buds — like the gameday game changing Playmakers℠ Sports Bar & Arcade — and larger-than-life ways to stay, like the Ultimate Family Suite. Go get your thrill on.
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 2025 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
Pricing
Pricing
Stateroom's are as follows:
| Room Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Interior Stateroom | $1,699.00* |
| Oceanview Stateroom | $1,999.00* |
| Oceanview w/Balcony Stateroom | $2,199.00* |
*Non-sewing guests will receive a $250 discount.
*Port charges, gratuities, taxes & fees of $495.13 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 $112.00 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.