April 11–18, 2027 · 7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise
Sail, stitch, and soak up the sun aboard Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas.
Why You’ll Love the 2027 Riley Blake Quilting Cruise
Spend seven unforgettable nights stitching with talented designers, exploring breathtaking Caribbean ports, and connecting with fellow quilters who share your passion. This is more than a cruise — it’s a creative getaway designed just for you.
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Exclusive Quilt Projects
Learn Party Favors with Jennifer McClanahan and Aurelia with Kellie Rushing — two beautiful projects designed especially for this unforgettable quilting cruise experience.
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Luxury at Sea
Sail aboard Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas and enjoy world-class dining, entertainment, and amenities while you stitch in style.
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Four Incredible Ports
Explore Nassau and Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas, plus Puerto Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico — the perfect blend of inspiration and adventure.
The Exclusive Quilt Projects
Enjoy two specially curated quilt projects designed to inspire and delight. Each class is taught onboard by a renowned quilting instructor in a relaxed, creative setting at sea.
Aurelia
Taught by Kellie Rushing
Aurelia is a vibrant star quilt pattern that celebrates color, movement, and playful geometry. Each radiant star block shines against a soft background, framed with scrappy patchwork sashing that adds rhythm and visual interest across the quilt.
A lively mix of florals, dots, and textured prints gives this modern patchwork quilt a fresh feel while honoring classic star quilt traditions. Bright, joyful, and full of personality, Aurelia is a stunning project that shines both on your bed and at sea.
Finished Quilt Size: 66.5" x 83"
Party Favors
Taught by Jennifer McClanahan
Party Favors is a vibrant modern quilt pattern bursting with color, movement, and playful geometric design. Layered angles and bold squares create dynamic quilt blocks that feel like confetti scattered across the quilt top.
Bright pinks, teals, yellows, greens, and purples blend beautifully with crisp whites for a balanced yet energetic look. With its repeating geometric layout and whimsical prints, this modern patchwork quilt adds personality, rhythm, and joyful color to any space.
Finished Quilt Size: 72" x 84"
Meet Your Instructors
Kellie Rushing
Teaching Aurelia
With over 40 years in the sewing and quilting industry, Kellie Rushing brings deep experience and a passion for teaching to every class. She has served as a National Educator for BERNINA of America and DIME, and spent a decade with OESD developing educational programs, events, and instructional content.
Now a Sales Representative for Riley Blake Designs, Kellie supports quilt shops across Oklahoma and North Texas while continuing to teach. Her style is approachable, encouraging, and focused on helping every student feel confident and proud of what they create.
Jennifer McClanahan
Teaching Party Favors
Jennifer McClanahan is a quilt pattern designer and founder of Sweet Tea Pattern Co., known for her bold, modern aesthetic and joyful use of color. Raised among generations of talented quilters — including a grandmother who still quilts at nearly 100 years old — creativity has always been part of her story.
After years of traveling the world as a Navy wife, Jennifer channeled her lifelong love of quilting into designing original quilt patterns that reflect her vibrant style and global inspiration. Today, she shares her passion for quilting from her studio, inspiring makers to create with confidence and color.
Your 7-Night Western Caribbean Itinerary
Sail from Miami and enjoy a perfect blend of creative time at sea and unforgettable Caribbean ports of call.
Miami, Florida - Departure Day
Board Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas and settle into your cabin as your quilting adventure begins. Meet fellow quilters, explore the ship, and get ready for an unforgettable week at sea.
Nassau, Bahamas
Discover turquoise waters, historic charm, and beautiful white-sand beaches. Spend the day exploring local culture, relaxing by the ocean, or joining one of many optional shore excursions.
Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas
Enjoy Royal Caribbean’s private island paradise featuring pristine beaches, crystal-clear water, freshwater pools, and exciting optional activities — or simply relax and soak up the sunshine.
Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico
Experience vibrant coastal culture, explore ancient Mayan ruins, shop colorful markets, or unwind by the sea in this beautiful Caribbean destination.
Cozumel, Mexico
Snorkel in world-famous coral reefs, stroll through charming island streets, or enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine and stunning ocean views before returning to the ship.
Days at Sea
Enjoy dedicated quilting time, classes with your instructors, delicious dining, entertainment, and plenty of time to relax and connect with fellow quilters.
Your 7-Night Western Caribbean Itinerary
Your 7-night Western Caribbean cruise includes everything you need for an unforgettable creative getaway — both at sea and in the classroom.
🚢 Your Cruise Includes:
✔ 7-night sailing aboard Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas
✔ Accommodations in your selected cabin category
✔ World-class dining and onboard entertainment
✔ Access to ship amenities, pools, fitness center, and shows
✔ Visits to Nassau, Perfect Day at CocoCay, Costa Maya & Cozumel
🧵 Your Quilting Experience Includes:
✔ Two instructor-led quilting classes
✔ Dedicated sewing space onboard
✔ Exclusive quilt projects: Aurelia & Party Favors
✔ Creative time at sea with fellow quilters
✔ A supportive, inspiring quilting community
Sail & Sew fabric kits are available as an optional add-on. Pattern-only options are also available for quilters who prefer to bring their own fabrics.
Cabin Pricing & Registration Options
Select the cabin category that fits your travel style. All pricing is per person, based on double occupancy.
🛏 Interior Cabin
$2,199 per person
A comfortable and cozy retreat after a full day of quilting and Caribbean adventures. Perfect for guests who plan to spend their time exploring the ship and enjoying the experience.
🌊 Ocean View Cabin
$2,499 per person
Enjoy natural light and beautiful ocean views — a wonderful balance of comfort and scenery throughout your quilting getaway.
🌅 Balcony Cabin
$2,699 per person
Relax and unwind on your own private balcony. Take in fresh sea air and breathtaking sunsets for the ultimate cruise experience.
Additional Required Charges
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Taxes & Port Fees: $425.79
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Prepaid Gratuities: $129.50
Total Additional Charges: $555.29
Deposit & Payment Details
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$350 per person deposit required
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Final payment due January 1, 2027
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Single occupancy available (contact for pricing)
Optional Sail & Sew Fabric Kits
Make your quilting experience even easier with a coordinated Sail & Sew fabric kit — or choose the pattern-only option if you prefer to select your own fabrics.
Party Favors Sail & Sew Kit
$237.95 Per Kit
Includes all fabrics needed to complete the quilt top for Party Favors, thoughtfully selected for a vibrant and polished finish.
Aurelia Sail & Sew Kit
$207.95 Per Kit
Includes all fabrics needed to complete the quilt top for Aurelia, professionally curated for a coordinated and stress-free experience.
Optional add-on: Coordinating backing fabric available for an additional fee at registration.
A pattern purchase link will be sent to all registered guests. Sail & Sew kit purchasers do not need to buy the pattern separately. Guests bringing their own fabrics will use the provided link to purchase the pattern and receive the supply list prior to departure.
Cancellation Policy
Prior to final payment: $150 of the deposit is non-refundable
Final Payment – 60 days before departure: 50% of total trip cost
59–30 days before departure: 75% of total trip cost
29 days or less before departure: 100% of trip cost
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is available and strongly recommended. Travel insurance premiums are non-refundable and must be added prior to the final payment date.
Please note: insurance covers cruise costs only. Sewing package fees are non-refundable.
Sail & Sew Policies
Sail & Sew fabric packs are optional and may be purchased to simplify your quilting experience.
- Fabric packs must be ordered at least 90 days prior to departure.
- Fabric packs include materials for the quilt top only unless otherwise specified.
- Coordinating backing fabric is available for an additional fee at registration.
- Sail & Sew fabric pack fees are non-refundable.
- Pattern-only options are available for quilters who prefer to bring their own fabrics.
Full Terms & Conditions
Participation in this Quilting Cruise is subject to the Stitchin’ Heaven Travel Terms & Conditions, including deposit requirements, payment deadlines, cancellation policies, travel insurance provisions, and hold harmless agreement.
Please review the complete Terms & Conditions prior to registration:
FAQs
Do I need to be an experienced quilter?
Our quilting cruise is designed for confident beginners through experienced quilters. Basic sewing and quilting knowledge is recommended, but your instructors will guide you step-by-step in a supportive and encouraging environment.
Do I need to bring my own sewing machine?
No. Sewing machines are provided for all quilting participants. Guests will enjoy the use of a premium sewing machine (typically BERNINA or Janome) during class and open sewing sessions — so there’s no need to travel with your own machine.
Is dedicated sewing space provided onboard?
Yes. A dedicated sewing room will be reserved exclusively for our quilting group throughout the cruise. In addition to scheduled class times, guests are welcome to enjoy open sewing during days at sea and while in port, giving you the flexibility to stitch whenever inspiration strikes.
Can I bring a non-quilting guest?
Absolutely! Non-quilting guests are welcome to join the cruise and enjoy all ship amenities, ports of call, dining, and entertainment.
Non-sewing guests receive a $250 discount per person, as they will not participate in the quilting sessions.
Is travel insurance recommended?
Yes, travel insurance is strongly recommended for cruises. Insurance must be added prior to the final payment date and covers cruise costs only. Please review the full details in the Terms & Conditions section.
Ready to Quilt at Sea?
Join us April 11–18, 2027 for an unforgettable week of stitching, sunshine, and connection aboard Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas. Whether you come for the creativity, the Caribbean, or the community, this quilting cruise is designed to inspire long after we return to shore.
👉 Limited cabins available — reserve yours today to secure your spot!