Skip to content
2019 North To Alaska Quilting Cruise
Join Stitchin' Heaven and friends on a 7-night Alaska Sawyer Glacier Cruise! Cruise and learn from quilting experts: Chris Hoover, Kari Nichols, and Cat Nix.
August 9 - 16, 2019
Seattle - Juneau - Skagway - Tracy Arm Fjord - Victoria
Royal Caribbean Ovation of the Seas Cruise Ship
Overview
Overview
Dear Friends,
Alaska, the Last Frontier. EVERYONE wants to go to Alaska. It never disappoints. It never gets old. There is always a wonder and mystery of the beautiful landscape, the surprise of the wildlife, and the intrigue of the history of Alaska. Viewed by most since the 19th century, over a hundred years later little has changed and it remains just as mysterious and inviting as ever. Alaska is larger than Texas, California, and Montana combined so what we see on our cruise is just a tiny part of this magic kingdom. But what we will see will certainly be worth it as it is ever changing and always satisfying.
This cruise will be ultra-special because we will be on the Ovation of the Seas. Why so special? The sewing room is on the 13th deck with floor to ceiling windows! What an amazing way to enjoy sewing on our projects with the beauty of the Alaska wilderness. I hope you will join us on this incredible 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
- 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
Chris Hoover
Chris began quilting in 1989 when she made her first sampler quilt. Sewing a block a week quickly turned into sewing a block a day and soon sampler quilts and scrappy quilts became her all-consuming passion. “Quilting soothes my soul and has kept me sane many times over the years!” Her eclectic style is inspired by everything from color and texture to architecture and nature and she loves to share her passion speaking and teaching classes for quilt shops and guilds since 1999. Her designs have been seen in Quiltmania, Best Fat Quarter Quilts, Best Weekend Quilts and Quilts from Quiltmaker’s 100 Blocks. She was a finalist in McCall’s 2012 Design Star competition.
“My designs may look complicated but they are easily broken down into simple elements. I encourage quilters to see beyond the color and fabric in a quilt and to imagine the possibilities of the design – how to make it suit their individual style.” Chris designs under the name Whirligig Designs.
Kari Nichols
Kari Nichols is manager of Holly’s Quilt Cabin, a large quilting store in the Denver Metro area. Being a native Coloradoan, and from a family of seamstresses, Kari grew up enjoying many quilts. The love of color and design was first shown in stained glass. Her stained glass pieces received awards and can be found in many homes. When a favorite piece was broken, re-creating it in fabric was the logical choice. This choice led to a career change and joining the Quilt Cabin family. Mountainpeek Creations, the quilt pattern design company, was born in 2001. Mountainpeek patterns are sold internationally and give quilters unique and contemporary designs for any skill level. Kari’s patterns have been featured in multiple publications and are available on the Mountainpeek Creations website along with her 2 books.
When Kari is not quilting, you will find her enjoying her Grandchildren and traveling!
Cat Nix
As far back as she can remember, Cat Nix has held needle and thread in hand. “I get such a charge from combining fabrics to create unique, dynamic designs! Absolute joy fuels my creative expressions.”
In the past, Cat collaborated with Paula Nadelstern to develop the “Puzzle Quilt Block of the Month,” which she has taught for several years. As Creative Director of Anthology Fabrics of Anthology Fabrics from 2010 to 2016, Cat worked with pattern designers, publishers, educators and shop owners to promote the “Artistry of Batiks. She also served as in-house pattern and project designer.
She has worked hand in hand with artisans in Indonesia to develop new and innovative fabric designs that are used in all facets of quilting and sewing. Cat’s quilt designs have been published in Quiltmania Magazine and Quilter’s World and is highlighted in the 2nd edition of Joen Wolfrom’s book, “Color Play”. Cat designs under the name CatNix DeSigns LLC. She teaches, lectures, and promotes the artistry of batik-making throughout the world. She is nearly as passionate about traveling as she is about quilting. She resides with her family near Kansas City, Missouri.
Projects
Projects
Chris Hoover
Lotus
Inspired by the Asian culture so prevalent in the northwest, this paper pieced, curve pieced beauty designed by Chris Hoover will be a treasured memory from a wonderful trip. The Lotus is believed to have given birth to the sun as it blooms by day and closes by night. Our Lotus will be blooming all year round and will be a celebration of the Land of the Midnight Sun.
Finished Size: 60" x 60"
NOTE: Fabrics in our Sail 'n Sew kits will be similar but not exactly as shown
Close
Kari Nichols
Bears And Paws
Bring a little bit of the Alaskan wilderness indoors! Create a true work of art that will be the focal point of any room. The beautiful bear and earthy colors will be a great reminder of your fantastic Alaska adventure! Bears And Paws is designed by Kari Nichols of Mountainpeek Creations and features the Call of the Wild digital fabric along with Bali Batiks ad Watercolors.
BONUS! Kari has designed a nice pillowcase that coordinates with our quilt that we will be making onboard as well.
Finished Size: 59" x 69"
NOTE: Fabrics in our Sail 'n Sew kits will be similar but not exactly as shown
Close
Cat Nix
Horizon
Imagine yourself camping beside the shore of a lake. Just before dawn, you climb out of your tent; it’s chilly. The air smells of damp earth and foliage; all is still. The mist is so heavy that you can’t yet see the lake’s edge; but you make your way toward it to greet the rising sun. You know that in a couple of minutes all around you will become clear, but, for a moment, all you see are the beautiful colors of new day reflecting off the mist . . . That moment was Cat's inspiration for Horizon. You will absolutely love the beautiful fabrics for this project from Island Batik. They will remind you of a glacier and of the Northern Lights in Alaska.
Finished Size: 61" x 65"
NOTE: Fabrics in our Sail 'n Sew kits will be similar but not exactly as shown
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 $460.00 and it includes the fabric and patterns (or book if applicable) for all three of the projects for this cruise. If you would like to buy individual kits, please call for pricing. 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 precut 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: Lotus, Bears And Paws, and Horizon.
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.
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
Finally, our journey comes to an end back in Seattle, Washington where it all began.
To get a more in-depth look at all our ports check out the Port Explorer Guide.
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.
Here is a video about Ovation of the Seas and all the amazing things it has to offer.
Learn more about this amazing ship here!
Close
Pricing
Pricing
Stateroom's are as follows:
| Room Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Interior Stateroom | $1,899.00* |
| Oceanview Stateroom | $2,299.00* |
| Oceanview w/Balcony Stateroom | $2,999.00* |
*Non-sewing guests will receive a $250 discount.
Port charges, taxes & fees of $425.85 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
During the day, dress is casual. Evenings are either casual, smart casual or formal. On casual nights, suggested attire is sports shirts and slacks for men and sundresses or pants for women. On smart casual evenings, men should don jackets and tie, with women wearing dresses or pantsuits. On the one or two formal nights per cruise, men can choose from tuxedos or suits and ties, while woman usually wear cocktail dresses.
Gratuities
Gratuities are a part of your cruise expense and total $13.50 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