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2022 Allure of 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: Elisabeth DeMoo and Raija Salomaa.
November 13 - November 20, 2022
Galveston, TX - Roatan, Honduras - Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico - Cozumel, Mexico - Galveston, TX
Royal Caribbean Allure Of The Seas
Overview
Overview
Dear Friends,
We love being on the ships traveling from one port to another. Having an Oasis class ship sail from Texas is a huge plus for those of us who love to cruise. So let's cruise in style with quilters on board! Join us on the most awarded ship in the world, Allure of the Seas. There are so many options for dining and entertainment on this Oasis class ship. The food is fantastic. The crew is always fabulous and treats you like royalty. The entertainment is superb. The poolside music, evening shows, professional ice shows, and parades are top-tier. And if that is not enough, the conference center is state of the art and available to our group 24/7 for our wonderful quilting classes and after-class sewing time. I hope to see you on board with us!
- 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 Times Day at Sea
- Prizes, surprises, and a boatload of fun!
Plus ... You'll be sewing on a BERNINA sewing machine provided by Stitchin' Heaven!
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.
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
Elisabeth DeMoo
Elisabeth grew up on a farm in New Mexico, where she learned how to sew by making garments in 4-H. When she was in college, she had a sneaking suspicion that she could apply those skills to quilting. She has been addicted to quilting ever since! After more than 20 years of quilting, she is still so excited to make the next one!
Juggling ten or more projects at a time, Elisabeth is a self-proclaimed craft-o-holic and states, "something inside of me drives me to create and I embrace it." Well, we're glad you do, Elisabeth! About three years ago, she started down a path that may lead to accomplishing one of her primary goals: becoming a fabric designer. This path has led her to create the Brown Birds Designs blog.
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Raija Salomaa
Raija was born and raised in Eno, a quaint little town in Eastern Finland. She met her soul mate and the love of her life while studying in the US, and they are the proud parents of two adult daughters.
Though she has been an avid seamstress since elementary school, quilting was something that Raija didn't know anything about before moving to the United 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.
Projects
Projects
Elisabeth DeMoo - Terracotta Fiori
Terracotta Colorway
Don’t you love the depth of the gradient? The colors make my heart swoon! Elisabeth’s love of indoor plants has become her obsession. Terracotta pots have found their way into her heart and living room. They are the inspiration behind this beautiful quilt.
The Terracotta Fiori Quilt pattern is a paper pieced pattern. This is one of my favorite techniques because it’s so exact. Paper piecing makes it easy to get perfect points — and will make you look like a quilting genius when all your “flying geese” have their points.
Finished size: 46" x 64"
NOTE: Fabrics in our Sail 'n Sew kits will be similar but not exactly as shown.
You can purchase your Sail N Sew kit for $205.00 when registering for the cruise.
If you do not purchase the Sail 'n Sew you will need to purchase the pattern.
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Elisabeth DeMoo - Terracotta Fiori (Seaglass)
Seaglass Colorway
Currently, I’m pretending I’m at the beach. Baking in the sun, enjoying the birds as they dance with the waves, breathing in the salty air, thinking about the Terracotta Fiori quilt, and searching for shells as I trek across the sandy shore. That is where this quilt is taking me… That is what I channeled every time I took a stitch.
The Terracotta Fiori Quilt pattern is a paper pieced pattern. This is one of my favorite techniques because it’s so exact. Paper piecing makes it easy to get perfect points — and will make you look like a quilting genius when all your “flying geese” have their points.
Finished size: 46" x 64"
NOTE: Fabrics in our Sail 'n Sew kits will be similar but not exactly as shown.
You can purchase your Sail N Sew kit for $205.00 when registering for the cruise.
If you do not purchase the Sail 'n Sew you will need to purchase the pattern.
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Raija Salomaa - Sand Bar
This gorgeous quilt was designed by Deb Luttrell! It uses beautiful batik fabrics from Island Batiks. Raija rewrote the pattern to include Studio 180 Design tools to help with precision. You will learn how to use two excellent tools - Tucker Trimmer I and Square Squared! They will help you make accurate half square triangles, combination units, and squares in the square units. Raija will provide invaluable tips and tricks along the way. This quilt will surely bring back sweet memories from the lovely cruise for years to come!
Finished size: 69 1/2" x 84"
Required Tools: This project requires Studio 180 Design tools: Tucker Trimmer I and Square Squared. They are not included as part of the Sail' and Sew kit.
NOTE: Fabrics in our Sail 'n Sew kits will be similar but not exactly as shown.
You can purchase your Sail N Sew kit for $170.00 when registering for the cruise.
If you do not purchase the Sail 'n Sew you will need to purchase the pattern here: Sand Bar 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 will be available soon. We will send all registrants an email with links to purchase.
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: Terracotta Fiori and Sand Bar
Note: View the preliminary 2022 Allure of 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
Galveston, TX
When you cruise from Galveston, you’re in for big thrills before you even set foot onboard the ship. A favorite vacation stop among families, this fun-loving seaside city in Texas offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty and warm southern hospitality. Start your visit with a Texas-style breakfast in the historic Strand District, the pulsing heart of the city and a hub of antique shops, restaurants and bars. Make time for a walk along the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, home to lots of family-friendly rides, games and other attractions. Then explore Galveston’s illustrious history on a scenic stroll past well-preserved Victorian mansions and centuries-old landmark buildings. If you visit Galveston, you must dedicate a bit of time to the city’s museums, which host exhibits on all kinds of topics — from Galveston’s history with oil and railroads to the pirates and corsairs that haunt the Gulf Coast’s rich and colorful past.
Day 2
Cruising
8:30AM - We will provide a demonstration of the BERNINA sewing machine. If you would like a lesson on the features of this machine, we encourage you to attend.
9:00AM - The fun begins with classes in the Conference Center.
Day 3
Cruising
9:00AM - Join us for more quilting fun in the Conference Center.
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
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 6
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 7
Cruising
9:00AM - The fun continues with classes in the Conference Center by Elisabeth & Raija.
Day 8
Galveston, TX
Return to Galveston, TX.
The Ship
The Ship
Allure Of The Seas
When it comes to epic vacations, the most awarded ship in the world dials adventure way, way up. Explore deck-defying discoveries, world-class dining, and the best cruise entertainment onboard Allure of the Seas®.
This Oasis Class favorite brings adventure to soaring new heights. Discover next-level thrills on every deck of Allure of the Seas®, from white-knuckle zip line rides ten decks up to totally splashworthy spaces for kids, like the interactive H20 Zone℠ Water Park. Get down after dark with more bars than any ship out there and savor a world of possibilities right onboard. Recognized for its dazzling onboard entertainment, thrilling attractions and wanderlust-fueled itineraries, this ship has already been named Best Large Cruise Ship, Best for Entertainment, and Best Individual Ship — and it’s just getting started.
Conference Room Setup:
Our Conference Center is amazing! Over 3800 square feet of space for tables (2 people to a table), our ironing stations, and demo area. You will love being just a few steps away from free coffee, tea, and cookies located in the Promenade. Our room is open 24/7 so you can sew at 2:00 in the morning if you want!
Note: View the preliminary 2022 Allure of 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.
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Pricing
Pricing
Stateroom's are as follows:
| Room Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Interior Stateroom | $1,399.00* |
| Oceanview Stateroom | $1,499.00* |
| Oceanview w/Balcony Stateroom | $1,699.00* |
*Non-sewing guests will receive a $250 discount.
*Port charges, taxes & fees of $322.70 per person 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
There are so many options for travel to the port that we feel it is best for you to make your own travel arrangements to the port.
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 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 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.