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2023 Quilters of the Caribbean
Quilting and cruising are better than ever so join Stitchin' Heaven on this 7-night Caribbean Cruise! Cruise and learn from two quilting experts: Stacey Day and Tiffany Hayes.
March 25 - April 1, 2023
Miami - Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico - Roatan, Honduras - Cozumel, Mexico - Perfect Day CocoCay, Bahamas
Royal Caribbean Harmony Of The Seas
Overview
Overview
Ahoy Quilting Mates,
Quilting
teachers Tiffany Hayes and Stacey Day are passionate about sharing the
joys of quilting with others. And now they have a fun way to do that. They're sailing to three of their favorite ports while teaching quilting classes. This Quilters of the Caribbean Cruise is a
seven-night adventure on Royal Caribbean's Harmony of the Seas,
featuring gorgeous ocean views and some serious time in port so you can
shop, stroll, explore and sew all you like. The cruise departs from Miami (Port Everglades) on March 25 and returns on April 1, 2023.
Harmony of the Seas is an all-time favorite ship to Stitchin’ Heaven because it is like a beautiful city on the water. After all, the capacity is about 5500 guests with 2300 crew which is more than the population of Quitman and Mineola, TX combined! We have a beautiful conference center on the 3rd floor with over 4000 square feet so that we can spread out and have plenty of space. New for 2023, we are introducing our Fun Times Day at Sea where you will have the opportunity to make one of our exclusive Grab ‘n Go projects.
During this trip you will we will also enjoy the beauty of the Caribbean. Our ports will include Puerto Costa Maya, Roatan, Cozumel, and Perfect Day CocoCay! I sincerely hope you can join us on the educational and enjoyable cruise.
- Deb Luttrell, Owner - Stitchin' Heaven
NOTE: This amazing cruise stops in 4 ports so we will be having class during our stop in Costa Maya. You should feel free to leave the ship after lunch and enjoy the port if you are so inclined. We will be sure you will not miss any instruction!
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
Stacey Day
Stacey Day is an award winning quilter, pattern writer, designer, and author of the book "Child's Play Quilts". Stacey designs and writes quilt patterns for FreeSpirit Fabrics, P&B Textiles, Timeless Treasures and Dear Stella. She has also appeared in publications such as AQ Magazine, American Patchwork and Quilting, and Modern Quilts Unlimited. When Stacey isn't working her day job as an x-ray Technologist, she is teaching and presenting her works with shops and guilds across Canada. Her work has appeared in numerous quilt shows and traveling trunk shows across North America, and have won ribbons at AQS Lancaster, the Canadian National Juried Show, and the Hoffman Challenge. You can follow the quilty happenings on her website, staceyinstitches.com, or on Instagram @staceyinstitches.
Tiffany Hayes
Tiffany has a passion for quilting (designing, piecing, hand applique and machine quilting). She has been quilting and teaching for quite a long time. Her quilts have been featured by numerous publications including Quilter’s World Magazine, Keepsake Quilting and Connecting Threads. Tiffany loves teaching. She works with various fabric companies to create fabric collection-specific quilt patterns. Tiffany has developed The Goddess Tool, The 60º Triangle Tool, The 90º Triangle Tool and has a few more in the works. The Goddess Tool is commonly used in her Block of the Month patterns. Tiffany and Scott (her machine quilting husband) are proud owners of a Handi Quilter Long Arm. Tiffany designs and pieces while Scott works to create digitized machine quilting designs to match her original quilt patterns. Tiffany declares herself a Quilt Addict!
She designs and publishes under the name: Needle in a Hayes Stack.
Projects
Projects
Electric Slide
Let your creativity run wild with this colorful modern take on the classic log cabin. Using every hue available in fabric form, and a splash of black and white for balance, this quilt will be the talk of the cruise. Beginner friendly instruction for an expertly appealing quilt. Electric Slide is sure to please even the most discerning quilter. Our project is made from the Tula Pink "True Colors" and "Linework" collections. Simply Stunning!
Finished Size: 78" x 97"
6 yards of coordinated backing fabric will be needed.
NOTE: If you choose to provide your own fabric you will need the Electric Slide pattern which is available for free download.
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Churn Churn Churn
Want a quilt project that is fun, beautiful, and easy to complete during your 7-night Caribbean cruise? This quilt uses a great technique to turn two sets of contrasting 10" squares (42 light squares and 42 dark squares) in to fabulous blocks. Tiffany is a pro and will guide you through making this fun quilt. The quilt itself has churn dashes throughout. It's easy, it's fun, and best of all, you will finish! Unless, of course, you choose to spend your time at the pool, in your room relaxing, or out roaming around. But that's all good - this is YOUR cruise anyway. Right? We want you to enjoy it however you please.
4 yards of coordinated backing fabric will be needed (pieced horizontally).
NOTE: the Splice Magic pattern book is required for this quilt and is sold separately.
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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 $405 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: Electric Slide pattern and Churn Churn Churn - Splice Magic.
Note: View the preliminary 2023 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 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
Cruising
Quilting Classes in the Conference Center!
Day 3
Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico
Past meets present in Costa Maya. Cruise to Costa Maya and find ancient Maya ruins and mysterious jungles just begging to be explored, as well as private beach clubs and trendy restaurants— all in one place. It’s 250 square miles of paradise packed with entertainment and history, all just 30 miles south of Cancun. The Great Maya Reef just off the coast is the second largest in the world— it’s a must-snorkel spot. Or you can kick back at the port village of Mahahual with an ice-cold michelada— a spicy beer cocktail— in hand. For a culture fix, head to the Kohunlick ruins to see the famous Temple of the Masks.
Day 4
Roatan, Honduras
Roatán’s diverse blend of cultures and traditions is enough to charm
anyone. But its mangrove forests, dense jungles, and swaths of
white-sand beach will make you want to stay forever. Divers and
snorkelers from all over the globe flock to the largest of Honduras’ Bay
Islands every year see to the world’s second largest barrier reef
firsthand. Roatán cruises provide access to laid-back beach towns and
secluded shores. On the Big Island, you can mingle with monkeys and
“Jesus” lizards, snorkel with stingrays, and zipline through rainforest
canopies. If it’s culture you crave, the island’s unique and vibrant
blend is more than satisfying— made up of 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.
Day 5
Cozumel, Mexico
With its lively tropical reefs, crystal-clear waters and ancient
ruins, Cozumel is ripe for one-of-a-kind adventures. Cruise to Cozumel
and head to Chankanaab National Park, where you can snorkel among the
colorful reefs and schools of tropical fish that give this island its
premier diving status. Or travel back in time on an adventure through
the towering Maya ruins of Tulum. When you’re done exploring, unwind
with a beachside massage at Playa Mia. From culture savoring to soaking
up sunshine, you’ll find a world of adventure waiting for you in
Cozumel.
Day 6
Cruising - Fun Day At Sea
Fun Day at Sea in the Conference Center. Join us for a special project and product demonstrations.
Day 7
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 Floating Cabana. Discover the magic of Perfect Day at CocoCay — only onboard Royal Caribbean® Cruises.
Day 8
Miami, FL
Return to Miami, Florida.
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 2023 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 | $1,599.00* |
| 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 $367.15 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 Required
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.