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2023 Studio 180 Quilting Cruise
Quilting and cruising are better than ever so join Stitchin' Heaven on this 7-night Caribbean Cruise! Cruise and learn from two quilting experts: Raija Salomaa and and Joyce Holley.
March 18-25, 2023
Miami, FL - Phillpsburg, St. Maarten - Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas - Perfect Day CocoCay, Bahamas
Harmony of the Seas
Overview
Overview
Dear Quilting Mates,
Fun, Fun, Fun, and More Fun aboard Harmony of the Seas. A one-week Quilting Cruise to the Caribbean is just what you need. You will learn new techniques as we sew together, make and take home a project completed during class, meet other quilters, and enjoy everything our cruise ship has to offer.
Michelle Hiatt and Joyce Holley go beyond just presenting lectures and class lessons. They also focus on sharing Studio 180 techniques with each student, so that their overall quilt-making skills are increased. Both teachers have taught for Studio 180 for over 10 years, are Certified Teachers by Studio 180, and have taught quilting at all levels. Of the many activities, you can choose to be involved in classes, lectures, and free sewing time in the conference center. There is something for everyone!
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 St. Maarten, St. Thomas, and the amazing private island CocoCay. I sincerely hope you can join us on the educational and enjoyable cruise.
- 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
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Raija Salomaa
Raija was born and raised in Eno, a quaint little town in Eastern Finland. Raija met her soul mate and the love of her life while studying in the US. They are the proud parents of two adult daughters.
Though avidly sewing since elementary school, quilting was something Raija didn’t know anything about prior to moving to the States. The moment she saw her first quilt it was love at first sight.
Raija’s desire to become a quilt pattern designer started almost immediately, and her pattern company – Quilters’ Treasure Chest was born in 2004. Her designs have been featured in multiple national publications. Raija loves tools that make accuracy easier, so it's no surprise she is a certified Studio 180 Design instructor. She enjoys lecturing at guilds and teaching workshops and currently resides in Arkansas.
Joyce Holley
Joyce is an energetic quilt instructor who truly delights in quilting and loves sharing this art form by teaching classes, leading retreats, sharing quilts at Guild trunk shows, lecturing and demonstrating new techniques. Her passion is for precision pieced quilts. Joyce expanded her passion in 2016 by becoming a Studio 180 Certified Quilt Instructor. Joyce’s quilting journey began in the early 80’s, making her firsthand pieced and quilted quilt (well sort of). By putting her Home Ec. Vocational teaching experience into practice “In the Beginning” was born. This is a class truly for the person who has always wanted to make a quilt but did not know where to begin. “In the Beginning” began being taught in 1996 and continues being taught in various ways today.
With a hunger for learning and perfecting precision piecing techniques, Joyce continues practicing and learning new point perfect precision techniques. Deb Tucker’s Studio 180 Tools and Rulers have been a great discovery. Joyce enjoys piecing and designing with the Studio 180 Tools. She would love to share the Joy of Quilting with you from the simple, to the intricate.
Projects
Projects
Bloom
Bloom was inspired by those wisps of colors here and there as blooms start to come alive after a winter's sleep. Bloom has a whimsical layout of Spinning Bloom V Stars and Five Diamond Blocks that actually create Ohio Stars when set on-point. Michelle alternated the two blocks and set them on point, so they come together to crate blooms and greenery popping here and there!
Bloom comes together easily with the Studio 180 Designs' V Block™ ruler and Square Squared™ ruler (or Large Square Squared™ ruler)
Finished Size: 62" x 62”
4 yards of coordinated backing fabric will be needed (pieced horizontally).
NOTE: If you choose to provide your own fabric you will need the Bloom pattern.
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Finley’s Fence
Finley’s Fence features playful rings of interwoven colors, made up of fat quarters, to create this modern play on an Irish Links quilt. This whimsical quilt comes together easily with the help of the Tucker Trimmer 1 and with Michelle’s inventive use of the Corner Pop tool the otherwise difficult angled/bias unit becomes tons of fun to make. You won’t believe how fast and accurate your quilting will be when you master the Studio 180 tools!
Finished Size: 66” x 78”
5 yards of coordinated backing fabric will be needed (pieced horizontally).
NOTE: If you choose to provide your own fabric you will need the Finley's Fence 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 $315.00 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: Bloom and Finley's Fence
Note: View the preliminary 2023 Studio 180 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
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
Cruising
Quilting Classes in the Conference Center!
Day 4
Phillipsburg, St. Maarten
What makes St. Maarten so unique is its blend of cultures. The island is home to 120 different nationalities speaking over 80 languages, and is governed by two countries: the Netherlands and France. In fact, it’s the smallest land mass in the world to be shared by two different nations. While it may be less than 40 square miles, there’s plenty to do on this little island: you can travel back in time while exploring centuries-old ruins and get your adrenaline fix zip-lining through lush tropical forests. If you’re after a little rest and relaxation during your cruise to St. Maarten, you’ll find plenty of secluded beaches where you can work on your suntan before treating your taste buds to some of the best cuisine in the Caribbean.
Day 5
Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas
Charlotte Amalie is one of the world’s most beautiful harbors; blue waters peppered with sailboats and green hills dotted with quaint little cottages make for post-card perfect brags. Just outside the lively port town, you’ll find ribbons of powdery sand beaches dotted with hammocks. Cruise to St. Thomas and explore colonial landmarks like Blackbeard’s Castle or raise a pint of the local lager at quaint microbreweries. And when it’s time to fuel up, you’ll find plenty of beach-side bars serving conch fritters, johnnycakes, and coconut patties. St. Thomas may technically be part of the U.S., but with its colorful markets, unspoiled beaches, and the ever-present sound of steel drums, you’ll feel a world away.
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 Studio 180 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
Pricing
Pricing
Stateroom's are as follows:
| Room Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Interior Stateroom | $1,599.00* |
| Oceanview Stateroom | $1,699.00* |
| Oceanview w/Balcony Stateroom (Sold Out) | $1,999.00* |
*Non-sewing guests will receive a $250 discount.
*Port charges, taxes & fees of $365.68 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 pre-cut Sail n Sew kit (supplies are limited) or you are welcome to bring your own pre-cut 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.