Skip to content
2020 North To Alaska
Join Stitchin' Heaven and friends on a 7-night Alaska Glacier Cruise! Cruise and learn from quilting experts: Paula Barnes, Tiffany Hayes, and Toni Steere.
August 21 - 28, 2020
Seattle - Juneau - Skagway - Dawes Glacier - Victoria
Royal Caribbean Ovation of the Seas Cruise Ship
Overview
Overview
Dear Friends,
You have always wanted to go to Alaska, right? Well now is the time! A wonderful way to see Alaska is on a quilting cruise. We will explore Juneau with the glaciers and the beautiful scenery, Skagway with the train and the quaint little town, and Victoria with Buchardt Gardens and so many things to do and see. Alaska has some great quilt shops as well that we will visit. If this is not enough, we will be sewing on the 13th deck in a Conference Center with floor to ceiling windows. What a great way to enjoy our sewing and experience the beauty of the Alaska wilderness. I hope you can join us on this incredible quilting adventure!
- 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
- A Welcome Aboard Gathering
- A Stitchin’ Heaven Travel souvenir tote bag
- Souvenir T-Shirt
- All workshops, classes, and demonstrations of products
- Optional pre-cut Sail ‘n Sew fabric kits
- Every quilting guest can take all the classes offered
- Classes are taken on days "at sea" so no port time is missed
- Classroom is open 24/7 for plenty of free time sewing!
- Bernina 330 sewing machines
- Premier thread for onboard projects
- $20 door prize for each quilter - choose what you want from the onboard store
- Demonstrations of the latest quilting and sewing products
- Classroom support from Stitchin' Heaven Staff
- Oliso Pro Smart Irons™
- Post cruise guest contact list
- Group Photo
- Smiles, a few surprises, laughs, and a boatload of fun!
Plus ... You'll be sewing on a Bernina 3 Series sewing machine!
That's right! Each quilter will be provided a state-of-the-art 330 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
Paula Barnes
Paula is one of the owners of Red Crinoline Quilts, formerly Bonnie Blue Quilts, which specializes in vintage and reproduction fabrics and patterns. Paula is the exclusive designer for the company. Her passion for fabric and quilts of the past inspires beautiful reproduction quilts, which incorporates today's simplified quilt making tools and techniques.
Using antique quilts as her inspiration, Paula designs traditional timeless quilts. Her designs are reproductions of actual antique quilts or are inspired by them. Paula designs reproduction fabrics with Marcus Brothers.
Paula has over 20 years of teaching experience in Dallas and Houston quilt shops, and enjoys numerous distinctions and guild affiliations throughout the state of Texas. Paula's workshop and lectures include "Designing a Quilting Studio", "History of the Quilts from Bonnie Blue Quilts ", "Exchange Quilts," and others.
Tiffany Hayes
Tiffany is a wife to Scott and a mom to 3 grown kids. She has a passion for quilting (designing, piecing, hand applique and machine quilting). She has been quilting and teaching for more than 20 years. Her quilts have been featured by numerous publications, including The Quilter Magazine, Modern Quilts Unlimited and Keepsake Quilting, and she’s worked with various designers to create fabric collection-specific quilt patterns. She has developed The Goddess Tool and Block of the Month patterns that utilize that tool. Recently she became the proud owner of a brand new long arm quilting machine. She declares herself a Quilt Addict!
She designs and publishes under the name: Needle in a Hayes Stack.
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 doubled that blessing with my, of coarse adorable, grandson Brody. 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 11 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.
Since becoming the National Educator for Timeless Treasures Fabrics in 2017, my love of traveling and my passion for Quilting has been melded into the perfect job, frankly it’s hardly feels like a job when you’re doing something that feeds your soul. Whether it’s lecturing or teaching I am certainly in my happy place.
When I’m at home I enjoy cooking, tending my flowers, movies and football!
Projects
Projects
New Market
Paula Barnes has designed another amazing quilt featuring 1800s reproduction fabrics. New Market is a quick and easy to assemble quilt in dark blue, brown, black and gold. It is simply stunning.
Finished Size: 79" x 92"
NOTE: Fabrics in our Sail 'n Sew kits will be similar but not exactly as shown. If you do not purchase the Sail 'n Sew you will need to purchase the pattern here: New Market
Close
Gold Rush
This beautiful quilt is designed by Tiffany Hayes. It is perfect for our cruise with it's colors that make you think of the gold miners in the wilds of Alaska.
Finished Size: 60" x 72"
NOTE: Fabrics in our Sail 'n Sew kits will be similar but not exactly as shown. If you do not purchase the Sail 'n Sew you will need to purchase the pattern here: Gold Rush
Close
Migration
Designed by Toni Steere, Migration was inspired by the beauty of geese migrating on a clear day in Alaska. Paired with the Alaska themed fabric this quilt will be a great memento.
Finished Size: 60" x 72"
NOTE: Fabrics in our Sail 'n Sew kits will be similar but not exactly as shown. If you do not purchase the Sail 'n Sew you will need to purchase the pattern here: Migration
Close
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 $490.00 and it includes the pre-cut fabric for all three of the projects for this cruise. If you would like a Sail ‘n Sew pack, just let us know when you make your Reservation and we'll have a kit waiting for you on the ship. Order early as supplies are limited.
If you choose to bring your own fabric, please bring it pre-cut and ready as we do not allow time for cutting during class. You will find the cutting instructions in each pattern that can be ordered here: New Market, Gold Rush, Migration.
A complete supply list will be sent to you 90 days prior to departure.
Itinerary
Itinerary
Day 1
Seattle, Washington
We begin our seven-night Alaskan Cruise out of Seattle, Washington. Seattle is often characterized by its laid-back attitude and rainy climate, but this thriving metropolis also offers one-of-a-kind architecture, the Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges, and a unique urban sophistication. A trip to Seattle isn't complete without visiting Pike Place Market. Here, you can browse the stalls of local merchants and artists, take in a street performance, or watch fishmongers play catch with the catch of the day.
Day 2
Cruising
Quilting Classes in the Conference Center!
Day 3
Juneau, Alaska
We will make our first stop in Juneau, Alaska. Juneau, the capital of Alaska, was founded during a gold rush in 1880. Today, the former gold-mining town counts among its riches some of Alaska's most spectacular scenery. Nestled at the foot of Mt. Juneau in the Alaska Panhandle, it faces the water from the mainland side of Gastineau Channel. Several magnificent fjords are located along the channel coast, and the majestic Mendenhall Glacier, a favorite of visitors, is nearby.
Alaska Inside Passage - Cruising
Once a route plied by Klondike gold rushers, Alaska’s Inside Passage spans 500 miles of shoreline jam-packed with some of the world’s most amazing landscapes and abundant wildlife. From the comfort of your ship, you’ll enjoy 360-degree views of the Alexander Archipelago, a collection of over 1,000 coastal islands that act as a shelter for smooth sailing in calm Alaskan waters.
Day 4
Skagway, Alaska
Our next stop is beautiful Skagway, Alaska where you can enjoy experiencing one of Alaska's most breathtaking valleys while horseback-riding through historic Dyea. Or, you could cruise to a remote beach at Glacier Point, then get aboard a 31-foot canoe and explore spectacular icebergs. Or how about experiencing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to design and blow your own glass art in the Last Frontier - complete with real gold in your finished piece. You could also enjoy the unforgettable journey aboard the "Scenic Railway of the World" and travel 20 miles from tidewater to the summit of the White Pass - a 2,865 foot elevation. Ride in vintage rail cars as you retrace the original route to the White Pass summit. This fully narrated tour features panoramas of mountains, gorges, waterfalls, tunnels, trestles and historic sites.
Day 5
Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier
Quilting Classes in the Conference Center!
One of Alaska’s lesser-known gems, Endicott Arm Fjord marks the southern edge of Fords Terror Wilderness area. As you drift through its 30-mile-long stretch, you can’t help but be awed by the surrounding granite cliffs, mountain valleys and dozens of gushing waterfalls. Drifting icebergs, deep blue waters and a spectacular tidewater glacier only add to this natural spectacle’s appeal.
Endicott Arm is one of the largest breeding grounds for harbor seals on the planet. Keep your eyes peeled for these creatures splashing in icy waters near the ship. Along the shore you might also glimpse brown bears, bald eagles, sea ducks, deer, moose and wolves.
Your journey through scenic Endicott Arm Fjord ends with a front-row view of Dawes Glacier. Standing over 600 feet tall and a half-mile wide, this very active icecap is known for its spectacular calving displays which produce huge, chunky icebergs that float in area waters.
Day 6
Cruising
Quilting Classes in the Conference Center!
Day 7
Victoria, British Columbia
Next up is Victoria, British Columbia. Located on the southern tip on the island of Vancouver in British Columbia, the city of Victoria is probably best known for its mild climate and active outdoor lifestyle. (In fact, the city has been named the "fittest city" in Canada more than once.) As the capital of British Columbia, the city is very tourist-friendly. Visit the world-famous Butchart Gardens or the lush and exotic Butterfly Gardens and see how Victoria earned the nickname "The City of Gardens." Among the many attractions are world-famous gardens, its 150 years of British history, gourmet dining and fantastic shopping.
Day 8
Seattle, Washington
Return to Seattle, Washington.
The Ship
The Ship
Ovation of the Seas
Set sail for the ultimate exotic adventure on one of the world’s most innovative ships—Ovation of the Seas®. It’s game changers, space age spaces, dining that defies the imagination and edge-of-your-seat entertainment onboard. Marvel at the newest and third ship in the Quantum Class, Ovation of the Seas. Featuring the same groundbreaking venues as its sister ships, Quantum of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas, this ship is continuing to take cruisers to new heights. Ovation will offer guests a variety of activities, entertainment and dining options.
Ovation is a beautiful ship but the best part about it is the Conference Center located on Deck 13, back of the ship, with floor to ceiling windows! What a wonderful way to experience the beauty of the ocean while sewing on our projects.
Conference Room Setup:
On this ship we will be sewing four to a table with two side tables like the image below.
Pricing
Pricing
Stateroom's are as follows:
| Room Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Interior Stateroom | $1,999.00* |
| Oceanview Stateroom | $2,299.00* |
| Oceanview w/Balcony Stateroom | $2,799.00* |
*Non-sewing guests will receive a $250 discount.
Port charges, taxes & fees of $401.19 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. Fabric kits are not included. 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 in Seattle, WA.
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 total $14.50 per day. This fee covers everyone who serves you while you are onboard including all onboard staff, dining staff, and your cabin steward. Because of our group status, Stitchin' Heaven Travel pays these gratuities for our entire group prior to sailing. Therefore, you will be charged for them at the time of final payment. A 15 percent gratuity is automatically added to bar tabs.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included, but is available for your protection from Royal Caribbean in the form of their Travel Protection Program. It is $109 per person 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 will be added to your reservation total