CARIBBEAN QUILT BEE AT SEA

8 Days – From $1499.00/per person/double occupancy  

March 7-15, 2026

Round trip from Fort Lauderdale

CHASE AWAY THOSE WINTER BLUES! Join us for quilting and sewing fun on this amazing EASTERN CARIBBEAN: GREATER ANTILLES & LEEWARD ISLANDS cruise on Holland America’s fabulous Koningsdam!

Joining us is an amazing group of teachers with fabulous projects; we can’t wait to escape the winter blues to the beautiful azure blue hues of the Caribbean

Trip Reviews

Highlights

2026 Caribbean Quilt Cruise
8-Day Eastern Caribbean: Greater Antilles & Leeward Islands
Featuring Allana Bryant, Peggy Gelbrich and Ilaria Padovani

Escape the Cold and Quilt in Caribbean Color!
Ready to ditch the winter coats for flip-flops and fabric fun? Join us in 2026 for an unforgettable 8-day quilting cruise through the sunny Eastern Caribbean! We’re setting sail with the amazing Allana Bryant, Peggy Gelbrich, and Ilaria Padovani aboard Holland America’s beautiful Koningsdam—and we’d love to have you join us.

Sew Much Inspiration at Sea
This isn’t just about escaping winter (although let’s be honest—that sounds pretty wonderful!). It’s about filling your creative spirit with the colors, textures, and energy of the Caribbean. Every island brings new ideas, bold colors, and fresh patterns that you’ll want to stitch into your next project.

Where We’re Headed

  • Amber Cove, Dominican Republic – Picture palm-fringed shores, vibrant villages, and hand-carved crafts that celebrate island life. The natural textures and earthy colors here are perfect fuel for your fabric imagination.

  • San Juan, Puerto Rico – Wander the winding blue-brick streets of Old San Juan, where every colorful balcony, mosaic, and mural feels like stepping into a quilt. Don’t miss the historic forts—those ancient stone walls hold centuries of pattern and story.

  • Philipsburg, St. Maarten – This island is a feast of Dutch and French charm, where pastel facades meet lively markets. Grab a tropical smoothie, stroll the boardwalk, and soak up the colors that beg to be recreated in fabric.

  • St. Thomas, USVI – From the breathtaking view at Drake’s Seat to the quaint shops of Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas dazzles with turquoise waters and coral-colored rooftops—perfect for inspiring playful color palettes.

  • Half Moon Cay – Holland America’s private island paradise. White sand so soft it feels like powder, calm aquamarine waters, and peaceful nature trails—your chance to relax, recharge, and maybe even sketch a few beachy quilt ideas under a swaying palm.

Sunshine, Sewing & New Friends
Our workshops are warm, welcoming, and filled with the kind of creative energy that only happens when quilters gather together. You’ll stitch alongside kindred spirits, learning new techniques, playing with color, and sharing laughs that echo louder than any sewing machine.

(And while not every classroom has windows, the spirit of the sea is all around you—you’ll find inspiration the moment you step outside!)

More Than a Trip—It’s a Memory in the Making
From our fun “Very Important Quilter” welcome reception to the final Show & Tell celebration, this journey is about more than just sewing—it’s about building connections, making memories, and bringing home not just projects, but new friendships and stories to tell.


Your Quilting Adventure Includes:

  • All your shipboard meals and accommodations

  • Inspiring quilting workshops with Allana, Peggy & Ilaria

  • BERNINA sewing machines and full technical support

  • VIQ (Very Important Quilter) welcome reception

  • Exclusive prizes, gifts, and private gatherings

  • Show & Tell farewell party

  • Private access to hand-curated shore tours


Spaces fill fast—book early and come quilt where the colors are as bold and beautiful as your next project! We can’t wait to sail (and stitch!) with you.

**To participate in quilt group activities your cruise must be booked through Deb Roberts’ Tours/World of Quilts Travel
 

It’s important to know who you’re going with.  Why travel with us? Read more right here

EASTERN CARIBBEAN: GREATER ANTILLES & LEEWARD ISLANDS itinerary

Date What and Where Arrive/Begins Depart/Ends Ship’s Status
March 7, 2026:
-Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Embarkation Day
Departs 04:00 PM
March 8, 2026
Quilting Day at Sea
9:00 AM
400 PM
March 9, 2026:
Amber Cove, Dominican Republic
8:00 AM
4:00 PM
March 10, 2026
San Juan, Puerto Rico
9:00 AM
7:00 PM
March 11, 2026
Philipsburg, Sint Maarten
8:00 AM
6:00 PM
March 12, 2026
St. Thomas, USVI

Stitch & Wine
7:00 AM

7:00 PM
4:00 PM

9:00 PM
March 13, 2026
Quilting Day at Sea
9:00 AM
4:00 PM
March 14, 2026:
Half Moon Cay, Bahamas
8:00 AM
3:00 PM
March 15, 2026:
Fort Lauderdale, FLorida
Disembarkation
Arrives 7:00 AM

Our Instructors

ALLANA BRYANT – Virginia

Originally from Southern California and now calling Virginia home, I discovered quilting over 25 years ago while stationed in Germany during my Army career. A magazine article about making a t-shirt quilt sparked what became a lifelong passion for quilting—despite not even owning a sewing machine at the time!

Since retiring from the Army, I’ve turned that passion into a profession, launching Quilt Top Farm, where I longarm quilt on my APQS Millennium, design patterns, and teach a variety of quilting and sewing techniques. I’m especially drawn to bold Batiks and bright colors, and I love finding ways to incorporate them into my work.

One of my newest creative adventures is custom quilted sneakers—fun, practical, and a great conversation starter! I’m always exploring fresh techniques and can’t wait to share new ideas, laughter, and a whole lot of inspiration with you on this incredible quilting cruise.

For any questions on her workshop, you may reach Allana at ajbryant71@gmail.com

PEGGY GELBRICH – Oregon

 

For over 45 years, Peggy has been quilting and teaching quilt making. Teaching and sharing the art of quilt making is her passion. She especially enjoys the time spent with fellow quilters, helping them learn new techniques. She has taught quilt making across the United States and Canada at large guild classes, quilting retreats as well as small private groups in her home. Her patience and teaching style earned her a nomination for Teacher of the Year for Professional Quilter magazine.

Originally from Oregon, Peggy spent 22 years in Ketchikan, Alaska with her husband, Ron and three children. Between raising their three children and a full-time job, Peggy taught quilt making and made quilts that won awards and were accepted for showing at the American Quilt Society show in Paducah, Kentucky. Her quilt, “Roses for Travis and Sharon” is pictured in the book, “Rose Sampler Supreme,” by Rosemary Mahkan. She has been published in numerous magazines including Fons and Porter’s Love of Quilting, Quiltmaker, McCall’s Quilting and the past Quilter’s Newsletter magazine.

Peggy’s goal is to learn and use techniques to find the easy way to make that difficult pattern. She teaches all types of machine piecing as well as handwork including needle turn applique and hand quilting. She is always looking for that next quilting challenge to learn and pass onto her students.

 

For questions on any of her workshops, you may reach out to Peggy at  peggy@yellowhousequilter.com

 

ILARIA PADOVANI – United Kingdom

 

Ilaria Padovani grew up in Italy, where sewing, knitting and crocheting were part of her life since the age of four. Thanks to her grandmother, she learned very fast to get things right. If the work was not done the right way, it had to be undone and remade until perfect.

Since leaving Italy in 1999, Ilaria has been living in many different countries – including the US, Ireland and the UK. However, it was in 2003, while in State College, PA that she become fascinated with quilt making, owing to a guild of traditional quilters who took her under their wing. During those formative years, Ilaria developed a passion for hand sewn projects – hand appliqué, English Paper Piecing and Foundation Paper Piecing – which are still her preferred techniques.

In 2014, while living in Bristol where she still resides, it was Ilaria’s love for color and eye for perfection that led her to being recruited to work for Kaffe Fassett, making and coordinating his sample quilts for his popular Patchwork and
Quilting’ books.

As a passionate quilter, maker and traveler, Ilaria loves sharing her expertise through teaching, making her ambition to inspire creativity in others on her art, and loves to travel and meet new people.

For questions on any of her workshops, you may reach out to Ilaria at ilapado@yahoo.it

 

2026 Caribbean Cruise Classes

Get ready for some serious stitching fun on our fabulous 2026 Caribbean Quilt Cruise! We’re bringing you awesome workshops with three amazing teachers, plus plenty of open sewing time so you can dive into those UFOs or work on whatever your heart desires.

This cruise is going to be HOT (and not just because we’re heading to the Caribbean)—we’ve had a ton of interest in this itinerary, so don’t wait too long to book your spot. It’s sure to fill up fast!

Class request forms will go out in December 2025. Each class needs a minimum number of students, and we also have a max limit per class—so plan ahead! Oh, and one quick note from our machine provider: no machine quilting on the provided machines, please.

The best part? You can take as many—or as few—classes as you’d like! Just one per sea day. Or, skip the classes and chill in the open sew room—it’s totally up to you. Seating for classes and open sewing will be limited, so your choices might depend on availability. Just know that all class requests will be released at the same time, and we can’t save spots early.

We can’t wait to see you in sunny Fort Lauderdale—let’s cruise and quilt in style

Classes With Allana Bryant

Oriana

Oriana – 60″x60″

Do you love the look of curves, but have been scared to try? The Oriana Quilt Pattern by Lisa Hofmann-Maurer and Alison Glass makes a beautiful 60”x60” quilt that looks complicated and difficult, but it is not! I will show you how to confidently navigate curved piecing. Once you learn the basics and some tips you will be able to tackle curved piecing in any design!

Sample quilt made using Magic Colors 40 Karat Gems by Wilmington Prints and Indonesian Batiks.

Fabrics:

Jelly Roll or 30 2.5” strips and 13 Fat Quarters (kit is $92 available from instructor)
OR 23 Fat Quarters

 Supplies:

  • Pattern ($14 available to order from instructor)
  • Template material (2 sheets 14”x20”)
  • Small pattern weights for tracing templates
  • Paper Scissors
  • Fabric Scissors
  • Rotary cutter (28mm for cutting curves) or you can use scissors
  • Rotary mat
  • Ruler
  • Marking pens (does not need to be erasable)
  • Seam ripper
  • Pins
  • Stylus/pointer/purple thing to feed edges under presser foot
    *this is a great project to bring a leader and ender project to work on at the same time.
  • Bring charm squares, 2.5” squares, piano keys, etc.

Please order items by February 1, only available as long as the supply lasts.

For any questions, please email Allana at ajbryant71@gmail.com

Easy Clamshells

 

Easy Clamshells 

Quiltsmart Clamshells give you an alternative to curved piecing. You get the curved look, but without the curved piecing! The Quiltsmart panels include marked interfacing—you sew on a line, cut and turn, then applique in place. They make it simple to get fantastic results! All three sample quilts were made from a single package. The dark baby quilt was made with a batik layer cake. The sea life baby quilt was made with Ocean Motion Organic collection (available from instructor in custom sized kits). The Pink Panda quilt was made with 45 clamshells and is 46.5”x50”.

Fabrics:
For baby size-31 8.5” or 10” squares. Layer cakes can be used, no need to cut smaller. Must have 10” squares if print is directional.

For twin size-110 8.5” squares (layer cakes can be used—no need to cut smaller).  Need 10” squares if print is directional and you want it to be straight

OR 28 Fat Quarter or quarter yard cuts

Supplies:

  • Quiltsmart panels. One package makes up to a queen size quilt or 3 smaller quilts. ($40, available to order from instructor)
  • Pins
  • Seam ripper
  • Fabric Scissors
  • Optional : duckbill scissors
  • Applique pressing sheet (1 needed, 2 is easier)
  • Cutting mat
  • Optional: Pointer-creaser or seam roller
  • Optional: stiletto or chopstick for turning out seams
  • 24” long ruler
  • Steam a seam lite 2, pencil
  • Scraps of black if you want to make Panda faces

Please order items by February 1, only available as long as the supply lasts.

For any questions, please email Allana at ajbryant71@gmail.com

Workshops with Peggy Gelbrich

Calypso

 

Calypso – 62”x74

Calypso is a fun, creative quilt to make. You’ll learn to look at the 45-degree angle a different way, not just half-square triangles. Choose a focus fabric then add fun fabrics to match. Think about contrast, choosing a variety of lights, mediums and darks that contrast with each other. I look forward to having you in class.

Fabric requirements. (WOF – width of fabric)
It is helpful to choose a border fabric and pull colors and values from that fabric to meet the light, medium and dark 

A – Variety of light fabric – 5/8-yard cut into 3½” strips, WOF
Variety of medium and dark fabrics equaling 3¾ yards.
B – 6½” strips, sub-cut into groups of four, 6½” squares of the same fabric. Need 20 groups of four.

C – Cut variety of fabrics into ten, 3” strips WOF
Border and binding- 2 yards

OR

Optional Pieced Border and binding 2½ yards
Diamonds in border – ½ yard

Supplies:

  • Basic Sewing/Quilting Supplies
  •  Creative Grid Spider Web Ruler #CGRKA6 OR
    Creative Grid Kaleidoscope and Dresden Plate Ruler #CGRTKAL45
  •  Pins – Regular quilting pins (Clover Double Pins helpful)
  • Rotary Cutting Rulers
  • 6”x12” ruler  (Olfa brand helpful)

Questions? Peggy Gelbrich 971-237-5330,  

E-mail: peggy@yellowhousequilter.com

Glorious Clams

Glorious Clams –60”x66”

In making the Glorious Clams quilt you’ll learn curved piecing and foundation piecing using freezer paper. There will be no paper to tear away from the seams.
The pictured quilt is five clams wide by eleven rows in height. It has a 1” accent border and a 5” outer border. If you’d like to make it bigger or smaller each row is 5”in height. Each clam is 9¾” in width. These are finished measurements. Make
sure you have good contrast between your points and point background.

Fabric

  • Variety of 15-17 fat quarters for the clams (4-5 clams per fat quarter)
  • Points – 1½ yards (can be a variety of fabrics) Pre-cut points into 2½” strips
  • Point Background – 2 yards – Pre-cut point background into 2½” strips
  • Inner border – ½ yard
  • Outer Border – 2½ yard
  • Binding – ¾ yard

Supplies: Optional clam template available from the teacher $15.

____ General sewing supplies
____ Freezer paper
____ Stapler and staple remover
____ Fabric and paper scissors
____ Cutting mat and rotary cutter
____ Add-a-Quarter Ruler
____ Seam ripper

Fabric Requirements
___ Background – 2¼ yards lights for block construction
___ Main – 3 yard of medium or dark fabrics for block construction and border
___ Accent – 1½ yards accent color for canoes, sashing and inner border

Supplies:
____ Freezer paper – Six – 6” squares
____ Stapler and staple remover
____ Fabric and paper scissors
____ Pins – Regular quilter pins
____ Rotary Cutting Rulers
____ Add-a-quarter ruler
____ 8-9” square ruler
____ Small cutting mat
____ Rotary cutter
____ Seam ripper

Questions? Peggy Gelbrich 971-237-5330,  

E-mail: peggy@yellowhousequilter.com

Workshops With Ilaria Padovani

Blooms & Stitches: Textile Art with a Kaffe Fasset Flair

 

Blooms & Stitches: Textile Art with a Kaffe Fassett Flair

Join us for a joyful, hands-on workshop where you’ll create a vibrant still life using Kaffe Fassett’s fabulously colorful floral fabrics. This is your chance to play with bold prints, lively textures, and eye-catching layers to design your very own fabric masterpiece.

We’ll guide you through techniques for layering, texture, and composition as you dive into the world of expressive fabric collage. You’ll learn how to turn your fabric scraps into sustainable textile art, then bring your piece to life with hand-stitched embellishments that add depth, texture, and your unique touch.

Whether your piece becomes a stand-alone work of art, a study for something bigger, or the stunning centerpiece of a quilt, you’ll leave inspired—and probably a little bit obsessed with fabric collage!

Come ready to explore, stitch, and create something beautifully you.

Supply List:

  • Fabric scissors with fine sharp points
  • Glue pen & refills (Sewline or other brands)
  • Assorted needles and pins
  • All-purpose thread (50wt) in grey
  • Kit
  •  

Kit is $50 and includes: all material necessary to complete your collage (background, vase and flower composition) and includes access to a large selection of Kaffe Fassett’s fabrics, Steam a Seam 2 Lite, templates and embroidery threads.   Pick up kit in class, cash only please.

Seaside Stitches: Pebbles from the Caribbean

Seaside Stitches: Pebbles from the Caribbean

Play with color, pattern, and texture in this vibrant workshop!

Inspired by the soft, rounded shapes of beach pebbles and the joyful palette of the Caribbean, this hands-on class will show you how to turn fabric scraps into a stunning wall hanging full of movement and personality.

You’ll dive into raw edge appliqué techniques while exploring how to use color confidently—learning to mix bold prints, scale, and texture to create visual flow and balance. With no templates and no rules, you’ll cut and compose freely, discovering how to let the fabrics guide you in a design that’s completely your own.

Supply List:

  • Fabric scissors with fine sharp points
  • Glue pen & refills (Sewline or other brands)
  • Assorted needles and pins
  • 12wt cotton threads or stranded embroidery threads in various colours
  • Sharps needles with large eye
  • Kit

Kit is $50 and will be available to purchase and collected on the day of the workshop.

Cash only, please.

 

 

STAFF PROJECTS

Stitch and Wine

We invite you to join us for a relaxed and heartwarming evening of stitching, laughter, and connection. Whether you’re putting the finishing touches on your class project, diving into a personal UFO (unfinished object), or simply stitching whatever brings you joy, this is the perfect time to unwind in good company.

We’ll gather in a comfortable space, a glass of red or white wine in hand, and the soft hum of conversation filling the air. It’s a chance to reflect on the memories we’ve made, share stories, admire each other’s work, and just soak in the creative energy around us.

And if stitching isn’t calling your name that evening, that’s perfectly okay—you’re warmly welcome to come simply for the fellowship. Sometimes the best part is just being together, surrounded by kindred spirits as the sun dips below the horizon.

Fee: $10 (waived if you’re not joining us for wine).
Sign-up is required so we can be sure to have enough wine for everyone who’s sipping!

**Does not count as a class choice.

Upscale Your Clothing with Hand Embroidery

 

Upscale Your Clothing

Give your clothing a creative upgrade! Whether you’re looking to add a personal and creative touch, elevate a plain garment, or cleverly cover up a stain or small tear, hand embroidery is a fun and stylish solution.

Join our friendly staff for a hands-on workshop where you’ll learn how to decorate or upcycle your favorite piece—new or gently worn. Just bring a garment or two you’d like to transform, and we’ll provide playful, nature-inspired embroidery motifs to get you started.

We’ll walk you through the how to’s of  embroidering on clothing, share tips on choosing stitches that best suit your fabric and design, and help you get comfortable with the basics. Each participant will receive a kit that includes an embroidery hoop, thread, needle, and stabilizer—everything you need to dive in.

This workshop is perfect for beginners—no previous embroidery experience needed. Come stitch with us!

Kit: $12

Pricing

Cruise only pricing for the 2026 Caribbean Quilt Bee at Sea. 6\

8 Day EASTERN CARIBBEAN: GREATER ANTILLES & LEEWARD ISLANDS

VERY LIMITED AVAILABILITY

The following rates are good for new bookings only.  Booked in BEST AVAILABLE OF  CATEGORY

Prices include port fees, governent surcharges and taxes.

Category Double Occupancy Single Occupancy

Inside Cabin 

$1499
$2698

Ocean View (window)   

$1899
$3298

Verandah  

$2199
$3798

Vista Suite  

$2999
$5398

Signature Suite   

$4499
$8298

Neptune Suite  SB category

$4959
$9298

Neptune Suite SA Category

$5459
$10198
The above pricing may be higher than rates charged by Holland America. This addition to the HAL price covers additional costs to us which we must pass along in order to host the cruise. This would include the cost of the teacher cabins as well as staff travel expenses, staff cabins, sewing machines, sewing machine techinical support person, incidental expenses and any event space charges we might incur. You are agreeing to pay this price when you book the cruise.

**Quilters in addition to the above cruise only prices there is a $390 fee for all of the exclusive to quilter activities below as well as some additional surprises.


Quilting activities include teacher wages, teacher travel expenses, teacher cabins, use of rooms, special events and more. This DOES NOT INCLUDE personal quilting or sewing supplies, kits or materials necessary for your workshops.

Your quilter cruise fare includes: 

What is not included with your cruise fare?

The above rates are capacity controlled by the cruise line. The cabin and rate cannot be guaranteed until the cruise line confirms availability and price once your registration is received.  

Please inquire about availability for 3rd/4th person cabins at worldofquiltstravel@gmail.com as they are not guaranteed until booked with Holland America.    Please inquire for additional availability in other categories. IF available, there are no 3rd and 4th person non-quilter discounts as a discount has already been applied to the cabin. Specials and offers or gifts for a cabin that might be provided by Holland America apply to the first two guests only.  

Surcharges and port taxes/fees are not included in the above prices and are $299 per person. Cabins are booked in the best available in each group class category, not all categories are available at the above rates.  

Workshops: Due to unexpected circumstances, we reserve the right to substitute teachers or projects at any time.   There is a minimum and maximum size for each workshop.  Space in a workshop or open sewing is not guaranteed. Open sewing workshop space is limited.

You may make a cabin selection based on current availability, however, BEST AVAILABLE allows you to be eligible for a complimentary upgrade should one become available (not guaranteed). Should you choose a cabin, you are locked into that cabin.

A passport is required, your passport must be valid for 6 months after the return of this cruise.   

Fare(s) in USD, per person, based on double occupancy, cruise only, subject to availability, are capacity controlled, may be limited by residency. Holland America reserves the right to impose a fuel supplement of up to $12 per person per day on all passengers if the NYMEX oil price exceeds $70 per barrel, even if the fare has already been paid in full. Additional surcharges including Port and Government fees of $295, Passport fees, shore tours, gratuities (suggested, $16/day pp up) and insurance are not included in the above pricing. Other restrictions may apply. Third person in a category rate applies only after two quilters are paying the regular quilter cabin rate in a cabin, special offers only valid for first 2 in cabin. Availability and any special offers by the cruise line are not guaranteed until a deposit is received and a booking is made. Holland America and Deb Roberts Tours are not responsible for omissions or typographical errors. Travel protection is optional. Flexibility during cruise port time is allowed so each passenger may enjoy the area at their leisure. As port time is often quite limited, unless specified on this website, escorted trips to quilt shops or group activities are not planned while on shore so that one has control of their own time in each port. Guests are encouraged to wait until the group is confirmed as a go prior to purchasing independent airline tickets.

Complimentary room service is applicable to that menu provided by Holland America with no charges. Room service gratuities are not included. 

©2011-2025 Holland America

To participate in the included activities and receive the above inclusions – the cruise must be booked through Deb Roberts’ Tours. Passports must be valid for 6 months after the end of this cruise/tour.

About Our Ship

Learn more about sister ships, the Eurodam, Zuiderdam and Noordam

Inside

Interior cabins feature two lower beds that convert to a queen-sized bed and private bathroom with shower. All staterooms include bathrobes, Elemis bath amenities, complimentary fresh fruit, flat-panel TV and DVD player, personal safe, telephone, and hair dryer. Some cabins may be configured differently than pictured.

Oceanview

Oceanview cabins feature a picture window, two lower beds that convert to a queen-sized bed, and private bathroom with tub/shower combination. All staterooms include bathrobes, Elemis bath amenities, complimentary fresh fruit, flat-panel TV and DVD player, personal safe, telephone, and hair dryer. Some cabins may be configured differently than pictured.

*Obstructed Ocean View category = there may be a portion of a column or a lifeboat blocking the view from the window.

Verandah

Balcony/ Verandah staterooms feature floor-to-ceiling glass windows with a door that opens to a private balcony, two lower beds that convert to a queen-sized bed, sitting area, and private bathroom with tub/shower combination. All staterooms include bathrobes, Elemis bath amenities, complimentary fresh fruit, flat-panel TV and DVD player, personal safe, telephone, and hair dryer. Some cabins may be configured differently than pictured.

Vista Suite

With a teak-lined verandah, floor-to-ceiling windows and comfortable sitting area, these comfortable suites are filled with light. They include two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner’s Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, plus a shower with premium massage head and a refrigerator. The configuration of staterooms may vary from the image shown.

Signature Suite

Signature Suites feature 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, bathroom with dual-sink vanity, full-size whirlpool bath & shower & additional shower stall, large sitting area, private verandah, 1 sofa bed for 1 person, floor-to-ceiling windows, binoculars and umbrellas for use during cruise Luxury bathrobes, expanded Elemis bath amenities, complimentary fresh fruit, flat-panel TV and DVD player, personal safe, telephone, and hair dryer. Some cabins may be configured differently than pictured.

Neptune Suite

The Neptune Suites feature 2 lower beds convertible to 1 king-size bed, bathroom with dual sink vanity, full-size whirlpool bath, shower and additional shower stall, large sitting area, dressing room, private verandah, 1 sofa bed for 2 persons, floor-to-ceiling windows. No host mini-bar, fresh flowers, priority dining reservations, concierge at your service, expanded Elemis bath amenities, binoculars and umbrellas for use during cruise, complimentary laundry, pressing and dry cleaning, afternoon tea served in your cabin, use of the industry-leading Neptune Lounge features a private place to relax, socialize with other suite guests complimentary wine and champagne as well as exclusive daily breakfast, priority boarding and disembarkation, tendering while in port. Some cabins may be configured differently.

Travel Protection

Frequently Asked Questions – Cruises

World of Quilts Travel offers cruises and/or tours with something for everyone. It is Deb’s goal to provide something unique, showing you a different side of travel while sharing her love of quilts, textiles, traditional crafts and culture.

Our adventures are specifically designed for those who have similar interests and provide a fantastic opportunity to make new friends and share this unique experience with like-minded travelers of all ages.

Below are some answers to frequently asked questions about our trips. If you have any questions which are not answered here or on our FAQ pages for our Tours or Cruises please don’t hesitate to email and I will be happy to get back to you as soon as I can.

Why do people travel to quilt? How often do they travel?

When the terminology “quilt tour” is used, I suppose it does conjure up the vision of ladies and gentlemen traveling to work on quilt. However, quilts and/or textiles are the passion that often brings the group together, and there is not always an active quilting component on every group.

 

The purpose for the experience varies from group to group. I have groups of quilt and textile historians that travel to see historic pieces while other groups travel to shop for exotic and hard to find fabrics. Still, others travel for the fellowship with those who share their enthusiasm. It seems that when one exists, often the actual quilting project is not as important as spending time with others who have a built in connection through quilts and quilt-making.

How often they travel often depends upon their economic and family situation. I have some clients who have been on many of our trips, others who travel with me once a year, and some who look at a single tour as a way to a brief respite from the ordinary.

What are the essentials/basics of a quilt/textile cruise or tour?

Outside of providing value in a quilt and textile related vacation experience, inspiration is the key essential on any trip; this is found in many ways. Quilters and textile enthusiasts are often inspired by landscapes, museum visits, quilts and textiles they see, by sharing with each other and the bonds they make with their fellow travelers. While the focus of any itinerary is inspired by quilts, a theme is often important in terms of how local quilt-making customs or historic textiles relate to the community that is being visited. One activity that most everyone looks forward to is any opportunity to shop for unusual or locally produced fabrics that will further inspire their quilt-making once they return home.

 

On our quilt history tours, for those who are historians, I feel it is important to include visits to historic archives and provide unusual opportunities to see antique quilts that are not often available for public viewing. An essential element for me then as a quilter as well as a quilt historian is to have a professional relationship with my colleagues within these institutions as this often opens doors to archives where we would not otherwise have access.

I believe it is helpful when the planner is knowledgeable about quilts and spends time with quilters in areas not surrounded by travel. As a quilter, show judge, appraiser and author, I spend a lot of time around quilts and quilt-makers. This helps me know their special interests and my tours are planned specifically around these things; they are not tours planned and then marketed to those who make quilts. In order for them to produce results, I have noticed a number of “quilt tour” providers that have hired a guest quilter to accompany a land tour group. Many times, this may seem like a benefit to the traveler, but, just as often, an additional cost is added to the tour in order to pay for the famous named guest who is coming along. I will not burden my travelers with those types of additional charges. If I feel that having such a guest would benefit a group or the overall tour experience, I will have one, but it is not a factor I often consider.

 

It is also important to have knowledge of class and workshop limitations. When planning actual quilting classes the planner should be aware of time constraints, materials and the facility suitability to the project.

I believe my most popular destinations to date have been Ireland, France and Bali, each for different reasons. The beauty of Ireland speaks for itself and we enjoy many scenic vistas along our way. Additionally, we stop at quilt shops up and down the Emerald Isle.  Often, we’ve been compared to an “Irish Quilt Shop Hop”. France is known in history for its contributions to both the fabric and quilt world, and Bali for its exquisite batik fabrics and special culture.

 

Our most popular cruises have been the ones that go to Alaska, the European Christmas Markets or international destinations such as the Baltic or Asia.

 

The most popular activity by far is shopping. I try to plan tours that not only offer rewarding textile experiences but also provide a truly memorable experience. Most of my travelers choose a destination they have always wanted to visit.

What is it about World of Quilts Travel that you would like to share?

As a quilter and travel enthusiast, I plan each tour as if I am planning it for myself or my family. I take every stop into consideration. It sometimes takes weeks or longer to create the perfect itinerary. To me, travel is about the total experience as well as providing a good value and I do all that I can to keep the travel experience affordable. I am not a large travel agency; all of my group travel experiences are simply about quilts and textiles.

 

When selecting a quilt tour or cruise provider, it is important to note there may be others who promote quilt trips that will happen to coincide with their other special-interest group tours. While it might be a fun group I believe that it might be surprise for a group of 10 quilters to find themselves sharing a motor coach with poker players (this has happened). This would be a convenient way for some to fill a coach, but I do not mind keeping my groups small. I find when everyone in a group shares the same passion, bonding is almost instant. Always ask your quilt tour provider if they are promoting the same tour or cruise to any other type of hobby or interest group.

 

I promote quilt related travel simply for the joy of sharing the world of quilts and textiles with others. I love to travel – and what better way is there to see things than with others who share similar interests.

Who travels on your tours?

Our travelers are of all ages and from all parts of the world. They share a passion for quilts and quilting, textiles, arts and crafts, and share a desire to connect with the lives and cultures in the places they visit. Many who travel with us are first time travelers, while others have done a lot of travel in the past but are looking for something unique that they can’t organize on their own and/or enjoy the company of others with the same interests. The age group of our tour participants ranges from around 35 to 85 years of age but we have had travelers from 13 up join our groups.

Can husbands or companions join a quilt or textile focused tour?

Yes absolutely – although we focus on quilts and textiles there is always something else for those with other interests to do or see. In general, about 20 – 25% of our groups are companions in this category. We always have husbands who come along, so if you want to bring yours, chances are he will not be the only one.

What if I don’t want to participate in the various visits, educational opportunities or hands-on classes?

While Deb does provide a variety of visits, hands-on classes and workshops they are not mandatory. This is your vacation; you may do whatever you like. While the activities are designed for every level and many are purely for fun and interaction with the local people, if there are any activities that you don’t want to do – just let us know and we will suggest alternative activities for you or you may adventure out on your own.

How fit do I have to be to join a tour?

Some of the tours do have periods that require active walking and a few may feature extended coach or train rides (greater than 4 hours) We have found that most people of normal fitness and mobility are able to participate fully. Those who may have difficulty walking may participate at a level comfortable to them. Please see our terms and conditions regarding health issues. Because we are not aware of any individual’s health condition, we do ask that you receive an okay from your health practitioner to participate on any of our tours.

What if I’m a single traveler?

Our groups are a mix of single travelers, couples and friends. If you are a solo traveler and wish to share with someone we will attempt to find someone else on the tour who wishes to share a room. If there is no one wanting to share the only difference in your cost is that of the single room supplement that we pay to our hotels or you may choose not to participate with a full refund of your deposit.

Do you provide travel protection?

Yes, we provide travel protection through several suppliers. On your trip web page, a link is provided to the travel insurance coverage which will also provide you with information about the insurer. You may choose to purchase travel protection through us, or from any provider of your choice. There are many online travel insurance options available to you.

Is travel protection mandatory?

No, we provide it as an option to you, or you can purchase it from any travel insurance provider. However, because unexpected things do happen, we strongly suggest that you have coverage.

Is my deposit refundable?

Yes, your deposit is completely refundable (less a $100 administration fee, $200 administration fee if on a Viking Cruise) if you change your travel plans and cancel up to 45 days prior to the final payment deadline. Please refer to our terms and conditions for additional tour or cruise refund rules.

When do I have to make the final payment for the trip?

Final payment is approximately 90 days prior to the beginning of any cruise or tour. You will receive an invoice by email about 30 days prior to the deadline.

How do I pay?

You may pay with a personal check (if you reside in the US), money order, cashier or bank check (if you reside outside of the US) or, you may use PayPal or Google Pay. Please note, the quoted tour price includes a 3% discount for those paying in by check. Those who choose to pay through PayPal using a credit card will not receive this discount.

What if I wait to sign up for the trip after the final payment deadline?

You may still sign up for the trip after the final payment deadline, providing there is still space available. We will need your payment in full at the time your register however.

Will I need a passport?

You are required to have a passport valid for six months past your tour date for trips outside your country of citizenship.

Will I need to get immunizations?

Most of our tours do not require special immunizations, but some do. Your health care provider is the best judge as to what you may need for your trip. To guide you as to possible immunizations suggested for your itinerary, please refer to http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel.

I am hoping that some of these answers to frequently asked questions about our cruises and cruise events will help you learn more about our programs, if not, please feel free to ask your questions by emailing me at info@worldofquiltstravel.com and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

How soon do I need to register?

We suggest that you register as soon as you know you want to join us. Many of our cruises categories (sometimes including the entire ship) sell out quickly and we have disappointed would be travelers.

What cruise lines do you use?

We only use cruise lines that have universally high ratings and are also “quilter” friendly, in that they allow us to hold classes and related events without much restriction. Generally, we use the following cruise lines: Princess, Holland America and on river cruises we utilize the services of Viking

Do you provide sewing machines?

Yes, whenever they are required for a project, we provide them. We use a variety of dealers, Bernina, Janome, Brother, etc. Not familiar with the machines? No worries as we also provide technical support for the machines during the entire time that machines are in use. You will never even have to thread a needle or wind a bobbin on one of our quilting cruises, our support technicians are always there to assist you in any way so that you have an enjoyable experience.

Is there an opportunity to sew when class is not in session?

Yes, we provide ample open sewing time each evening and at other times when class is not in session. During this time you may work on anything you wish, including  Make-it/Take-it projects or demos when they are offered.

How do I choose my cabin?

We offer inside, ocean view (window) and balcony cabins. If there are suites available to us, we will offer these as well. We will book you in the best available cabin in the category you choose – guaranteed. If you would like to request a certain cabin you may, however, it may not be in our block or it may outside of our pricing category. If this is the case we will do what we can to get you the cabin of your choice for the additional cost of the cabin. However, the reason we like to ‘guarantee’ you the best cabin in a category rather than make a choice on a particular cabin as this gives you a better chance of receiving a complimentary upgrade. If you would like us to try to book a particular cabin for you, please indicate this on the registration form.

What about my flight?

As our cruises leave from departure ports from all over the world and our guests also come from many areas, it is impossible for us to arrange a group flight for cruises. However, this also allows you to fly when you want and from where you want at the best price you can find. It is also a way to use your airline miles or points. We will notify you as soon as we know that our cruise is a ‘go’ so that you may look for the best airfare that suits you. If you would like us to book your air for you, upon request, we are happy to do this, just let us know. We will also arrange transfers between the airport and the ship when you select the appropriate box on the registration form. If you do not wish to make your own air arrangements, we are happy to assist you.

Is transportation provided between the ship and the airport?

Cruise lines generally runs buses the day of the cruise for a fee which will be a choice for you on your registration form. If you are coming in the day before, you will need to find your own transportation to the hotel and cruise terminal. Many hotels offer free transportation from the airports.

What time do I need to arrive in the departure port city on the day of my cruise?

We ask that you plan to arrive no later than 12 noon on the day of your cruise departure, the earlier the better. Please take into account that there may be flight delays and book your flight so that you have an alternative should this occur.

What time should I book my flight to leave for home once the cruise is over?

On the day of embarkation, cruise lines suggest not booking flights that depart before 12 noon.

What if I want to arrive a day or two before the cruise departs?

Frequently we will include a pre-cruise hotel option and this will be indicated on the cruise information page or the information will be sent to you in a separate email. Otherwise, we can provide the name of suitable hotels for you to make a reservation.

How do I register for shore excursions?

Once we receive your registration, we book you with the cruise line and email you your booking number. From here, you may go onto the cruise line website to review and book your shore excursions directly with the cruise line. Wherever possible, we will arrange custom shore excursions to suit the interest of the group. When we do this, this will be indicated on the cruise web page or included in a special email.

What is included in the price of my quilting cruise?

If you are a quilter, in addition to the cruise, your cruise includes onboard quilting parties and events, workshops and sewing machines are included in the price. If a teacher has a kit or a required pattern and there is an additional fee the cost will be payable directly to the teacher. Information on kits or other materials, including price, will be listed on the website where class information is available.

To be certain of what we do include, everything that is indicated on the individual cruise itinerary pricing page and is listed as ‘included’ is covered by your quilter cruise cost.

How do I choose my classes or workshops?

About 90 days prior to departure, we will send out a class enrollment form by email. You will choose your classes and submit the form to us any time after this date. Classes will be filled on a first come first serve basis. Most get their first class choices, rarely does anyone not get their first or second choice.

What about dining?

Cruise ships offer several dining options. Except for dinner, these are very flexible. Unless a sponsor of a cruise requests that everyone dine together, we request flexible (anytime) dinner dining for everyone. This way, you may eat when and where you want, even in the dining room where you will have the same menu as those who participate in an early or late dinner service.

What about formal nights?

Cruise ships will indicate how many formal or gala nights they have on a cruise on their own registration pages. We will try to indicate the formal nights on our cruise event calendar, however they are subject to change, and frequently cruise lines do change this night sometime during the cruise. Changes such as this are out of our control. The number of formal nights differ for each cruise line and cruise itinerary. Formal or gala nights are optional, meaning if you do not wish to dress in what is referred to as cocktail or formal attire, then you may dine somewhere of your choice other than the main dining rooms. For those wishing to join the Formal Night dinner festivities, we suggest that ladies bring a pair of black pants and a dressy top or cocktail dress. For men, a jacket is minimally required.

What about tips?

Cruise lines will automatically charge a set amount (around $13-15 a day per person) to your shipboard account to cover tips for your room steward and dining room staff. Once the cruise begins, you are free to make an adjustment to this amount at any time by submitting a form that the ship’s front desk will supply.

Highlights

2026 Caribbean Quilt Cruise
8-Day Eastern Caribbean: Greater Antilles & Leeward Islands
Featuring Allana Bryant, Peggy Gelbrich and Ilaria Padovani

Escape the Cold and Quilt in Caribbean Color!
Ready to ditch the winter coats for flip-flops and fabric fun? Join us in 2026 for an unforgettable 8-day quilting cruise through the sunny Eastern Caribbean! We’re setting sail with the amazing Allana Bryant, Peggy Gelbrich, and Ilaria Padovani aboard Holland America’s beautiful Koningsdam—and we’d love to have you join us.

Sew Much Inspiration at Sea
This isn’t just about escaping winter (although let’s be honest—that sounds pretty wonderful!). It’s about filling your creative spirit with the colors, textures, and energy of the Caribbean. Every island brings new ideas, bold colors, and fresh patterns that you’ll want to stitch into your next project.

Where We’re Headed

  • Amber Cove, Dominican Republic – Picture palm-fringed shores, vibrant villages, and hand-carved crafts that celebrate island life. The natural textures and earthy colors here are perfect fuel for your fabric imagination.

  • San Juan, Puerto Rico – Wander the winding blue-brick streets of Old San Juan, where every colorful balcony, mosaic, and mural feels like stepping into a quilt. Don’t miss the historic forts—those ancient stone walls hold centuries of pattern and story.

  • Philipsburg, St. Maarten – This island is a feast of Dutch and French charm, where pastel facades meet lively markets. Grab a tropical smoothie, stroll the boardwalk, and soak up the colors that beg to be recreated in fabric.

  • St. Thomas, USVI – From the breathtaking view at Drake’s Seat to the quaint shops of Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas dazzles with turquoise waters and coral-colored rooftops—perfect for inspiring playful color palettes.

  • Half Moon Cay – Holland America’s private island paradise. White sand so soft it feels like powder, calm aquamarine waters, and peaceful nature trails—your chance to relax, recharge, and maybe even sketch a few beachy quilt ideas under a swaying palm.

Sunshine, Sewing & New Friends
Our workshops are warm, welcoming, and filled with the kind of creative energy that only happens when quilters gather together. You’ll stitch alongside kindred spirits, learning new techniques, playing with color, and sharing laughs that echo louder than any sewing machine.

(And while not every classroom has windows, the spirit of the sea is all around you—you’ll find inspiration the moment you step outside!)

More Than a Trip—It’s a Memory in the Making
From our fun “Very Important Quilter” welcome reception to the final Show & Tell celebration, this journey is about more than just sewing—it’s about building connections, making memories, and bringing home not just projects, but new friendships and stories to tell.


Your Quilting Adventure Includes:

  • All your shipboard meals and accommodations

  • Inspiring quilting workshops with Allana, Peggy & Ilaria

  • BERNINA sewing machines and full technical support

  • VIQ (Very Important Quilter) welcome reception

  • Exclusive prizes, gifts, and private gatherings

  • Show & Tell farewell party

  • Private access to hand-curated shore tours


Spaces fill fast—book early and come quilt where the colors are as bold and beautiful as your next project! We can’t wait to sail (and stitch!) with you.

**To participate in quilt group activities your cruise must be booked through Deb Roberts’ Tours/World of Quilts Travel
 

It’s important to know who you’re going with.  Why travel with us? Read more right here

EASTERN CARIBBEAN: GREATER ANTILLES & LEEWARD ISLANDS itinerary

Date What and Where Arrive/Begins Depart/Ends Ship’s Status
March 7, 2026:
-Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Embarkation Day
Departs 04:00 PM
March 8, 2026
Quilting Day at Sea
9:00 AM
400 PM
March 9, 2026:
Amber Cove, Dominican Republic
8:00 AM
4:00 PM
March 10, 2026
San Juan, Puerto Rico
9:00 AM
7:00 PM
March 11, 2026
Philipsburg, Sint Maarten
8:00 AM
6:00 PM
March 12, 2026
St. Thomas, USVI

Stitch & Wine
7:00 AM

7:00 PM
4:00 PM

9:00 PM
March 13, 2026
Quilting Day at Sea
9:00 AM
4:00 PM
March 14, 2026:
Half Moon Cay, Bahamas
8:00 AM
3:00 PM
March 15, 2026:
Fort Lauderdale, FLorida
Disembarkation
Arrives 7:00 AM

Our Instructors

ALLANA BRYANT – Virginia

Originally from Southern California and now calling Virginia home, I discovered quilting over 25 years ago while stationed in Germany during my Army career. A magazine article about making a t-shirt quilt sparked what became a lifelong passion for quilting—despite not even owning a sewing machine at the time!

Since retiring from the Army, I’ve turned that passion into a profession, launching Quilt Top Farm, where I longarm quilt on my APQS Millennium, design patterns, and teach a variety of quilting and sewing techniques. I’m especially drawn to bold Batiks and bright colors, and I love finding ways to incorporate them into my work.

One of my newest creative adventures is custom quilted sneakers—fun, practical, and a great conversation starter! I’m always exploring fresh techniques and can’t wait to share new ideas, laughter, and a whole lot of inspiration with you on this incredible quilting cruise.

For any questions on her workshop, you may reach Allana at ajbryant71@gmail.com

PEGGY GELBRICH – Oregon

 

For over 45 years, Peggy has been quilting and teaching quilt making. Teaching and sharing the art of quilt making is her passion. She especially enjoys the time spent with fellow quilters, helping them learn new techniques. She has taught quilt making across the United States and Canada at large guild classes, quilting retreats as well as small private groups in her home. Her patience and teaching style earned her a nomination for Teacher of the Year for Professional Quilter magazine.

Originally from Oregon, Peggy spent 22 years in Ketchikan, Alaska with her husband, Ron and three children. Between raising their three children and a full-time job, Peggy taught quilt making and made quilts that won awards and were accepted for showing at the American Quilt Society show in Paducah, Kentucky. Her quilt, “Roses for Travis and Sharon” is pictured in the book, “Rose Sampler Supreme,” by Rosemary Mahkan. She has been published in numerous magazines including Fons and Porter’s Love of Quilting, Quiltmaker, McCall’s Quilting and the past Quilter’s Newsletter magazine.

Peggy’s goal is to learn and use techniques to find the easy way to make that difficult pattern. She teaches all types of machine piecing as well as handwork including needle turn applique and hand quilting. She is always looking for that next quilting challenge to learn and pass onto her students.

 

For questions on any of her workshops, you may reach out to Peggy at  peggy@yellowhousequilter.com

 

ILARIA PADOVANI – United Kingdom

 

Ilaria Padovani grew up in Italy, where sewing, knitting and crocheting were part of her life since the age of four. Thanks to her grandmother, she learned very fast to get things right. If the work was not done the right way, it had to be undone and remade until perfect.

Since leaving Italy in 1999, Ilaria has been living in many different countries – including the US, Ireland and the UK. However, it was in 2003, while in State College, PA that she become fascinated with quilt making, owing to a guild of traditional quilters who took her under their wing. During those formative years, Ilaria developed a passion for hand sewn projects – hand appliqué, English Paper Piecing and Foundation Paper Piecing – which are still her preferred techniques.

In 2014, while living in Bristol where she still resides, it was Ilaria’s love for color and eye for perfection that led her to being recruited to work for Kaffe Fassett, making and coordinating his sample quilts for his popular Patchwork and
Quilting’ books.

As a passionate quilter, maker and traveler, Ilaria loves sharing her expertise through teaching, making her ambition to inspire creativity in others on her art, and loves to travel and meet new people.

For questions on any of her workshops, you may reach out to Ilaria at ilapado@yahoo.it

 

2026 Caribbean Cruise Classes

Get ready for some serious stitching fun on our fabulous 2026 Caribbean Quilt Cruise! We’re bringing you awesome workshops with three amazing teachers, plus plenty of open sewing time so you can dive into those UFOs or work on whatever your heart desires.

This cruise is going to be HOT (and not just because we’re heading to the Caribbean)—we’ve had a ton of interest in this itinerary, so don’t wait too long to book your spot. It’s sure to fill up fast!

Class request forms will go out in December 2025. Each class needs a minimum number of students, and we also have a max limit per class—so plan ahead! Oh, and one quick note from our machine provider: no machine quilting on the provided machines, please.

The best part? You can take as many—or as few—classes as you’d like! Just one per sea day. Or, skip the classes and chill in the open sew room—it’s totally up to you. Seating for classes and open sewing will be limited, so your choices might depend on availability. Just know that all class requests will be released at the same time, and we can’t save spots early.

We can’t wait to see you in sunny Fort Lauderdale—let’s cruise and quilt in style

Classes With Allana Bryant

Oriana

Oriana – 60″x60″

Do you love the look of curves, but have been scared to try? The Oriana Quilt Pattern by Lisa Hofmann-Maurer and Alison Glass makes a beautiful 60”x60” quilt that looks complicated and difficult, but it is not! I will show you how to confidently navigate curved piecing. Once you learn the basics and some tips you will be able to tackle curved piecing in any design!

Sample quilt made using Magic Colors 40 Karat Gems by Wilmington Prints and Indonesian Batiks.

Fabrics:

Jelly Roll or 30 2.5” strips and 13 Fat Quarters (kit is $92 available from instructor)
OR 23 Fat Quarters

 Supplies:

  • Pattern ($14 available to order from instructor)
  • Template material (2 sheets 14”x20”)
  • Small pattern weights for tracing templates
  • Paper Scissors
  • Fabric Scissors
  • Rotary cutter (28mm for cutting curves) or you can use scissors
  • Rotary mat
  • Ruler
  • Marking pens (does not need to be erasable)
  • Seam ripper
  • Pins
  • Stylus/pointer/purple thing to feed edges under presser foot
    *this is a great project to bring a leader and ender project to work on at the same time.
  • Bring charm squares, 2.5” squares, piano keys, etc.

Please order items by February 1, only available as long as the supply lasts.

For any questions, please email Allana at ajbryant71@gmail.com

Easy Clamshells

 

Easy Clamshells 

Quiltsmart Clamshells give you an alternative to curved piecing. You get the curved look, but without the curved piecing! The Quiltsmart panels include marked interfacing—you sew on a line, cut and turn, then applique in place. They make it simple to get fantastic results! All three sample quilts were made from a single package. The dark baby quilt was made with a batik layer cake. The sea life baby quilt was made with Ocean Motion Organic collection (available from instructor in custom sized kits). The Pink Panda quilt was made with 45 clamshells and is 46.5”x50”.

Fabrics:
For baby size-31 8.5” or 10” squares. Layer cakes can be used, no need to cut smaller. Must have 10” squares if print is directional.

For twin size-110 8.5” squares (layer cakes can be used—no need to cut smaller).  Need 10” squares if print is directional and you want it to be straight

OR 28 Fat Quarter or quarter yard cuts

Supplies:

  • Quiltsmart panels. One package makes up to a queen size quilt or 3 smaller quilts. ($40, available to order from instructor)
  • Pins
  • Seam ripper
  • Fabric Scissors
  • Optional : duckbill scissors
  • Applique pressing sheet (1 needed, 2 is easier)
  • Cutting mat
  • Optional: Pointer-creaser or seam roller
  • Optional: stiletto or chopstick for turning out seams
  • 24” long ruler
  • Steam a seam lite 2, pencil
  • Scraps of black if you want to make Panda faces

Please order items by February 1, only available as long as the supply lasts.

For any questions, please email Allana at ajbryant71@gmail.com

Workshops with Peggy Gelbrich

Calypso

 

Calypso – 62”x74

Calypso is a fun, creative quilt to make. You’ll learn to look at the 45-degree angle a different way, not just half-square triangles. Choose a focus fabric then add fun fabrics to match. Think about contrast, choosing a variety of lights, mediums and darks that contrast with each other. I look forward to having you in class.

Fabric requirements. (WOF – width of fabric)
It is helpful to choose a border fabric and pull colors and values from that fabric to meet the light, medium and dark 

A – Variety of light fabric – 5/8-yard cut into 3½” strips, WOF
Variety of medium and dark fabrics equaling 3¾ yards.
B – 6½” strips, sub-cut into groups of four, 6½” squares of the same fabric. Need 20 groups of four.

C – Cut variety of fabrics into ten, 3” strips WOF
Border and binding- 2 yards

OR

Optional Pieced Border and binding 2½ yards
Diamonds in border – ½ yard

Supplies:

  • Basic Sewing/Quilting Supplies
  •  Creative Grid Spider Web Ruler #CGRKA6 OR
    Creative Grid Kaleidoscope and Dresden Plate Ruler #CGRTKAL45
  •  Pins – Regular quilting pins (Clover Double Pins helpful)
  • Rotary Cutting Rulers
  • 6”x12” ruler  (Olfa brand helpful)

Questions? Peggy Gelbrich 971-237-5330,  

E-mail: peggy@yellowhousequilter.com

Glorious Clams

Glorious Clams –60”x66”

In making the Glorious Clams quilt you’ll learn curved piecing and foundation piecing using freezer paper. There will be no paper to tear away from the seams.
The pictured quilt is five clams wide by eleven rows in height. It has a 1” accent border and a 5” outer border. If you’d like to make it bigger or smaller each row is 5”in height. Each clam is 9¾” in width. These are finished measurements. Make
sure you have good contrast between your points and point background.

Fabric

  • Variety of 15-17 fat quarters for the clams (4-5 clams per fat quarter)
  • Points – 1½ yards (can be a variety of fabrics) Pre-cut points into 2½” strips
  • Point Background – 2 yards – Pre-cut point background into 2½” strips
  • Inner border – ½ yard
  • Outer Border – 2½ yard
  • Binding – ¾ yard

Supplies: Optional clam template available from the teacher $15.

____ General sewing supplies
____ Freezer paper
____ Stapler and staple remover
____ Fabric and paper scissors
____ Cutting mat and rotary cutter
____ Add-a-Quarter Ruler
____ Seam ripper

Fabric Requirements
___ Background – 2¼ yards lights for block construction
___ Main – 3 yard of medium or dark fabrics for block construction and border
___ Accent – 1½ yards accent color for canoes, sashing and inner border

Supplies:
____ Freezer paper – Six – 6” squares
____ Stapler and staple remover
____ Fabric and paper scissors
____ Pins – Regular quilter pins
____ Rotary Cutting Rulers
____ Add-a-quarter ruler
____ 8-9” square ruler
____ Small cutting mat
____ Rotary cutter
____ Seam ripper

Questions? Peggy Gelbrich 971-237-5330,  

E-mail: peggy@yellowhousequilter.com

Workshops With Ilaria Padovani

Blooms & Stitches: Textile Art with a Kaffe Fasset Flair

 

Blooms & Stitches: Textile Art with a Kaffe Fassett Flair

Join us for a joyful, hands-on workshop where you’ll create a vibrant still life using Kaffe Fassett’s fabulously colorful floral fabrics. This is your chance to play with bold prints, lively textures, and eye-catching layers to design your very own fabric masterpiece.

We’ll guide you through techniques for layering, texture, and composition as you dive into the world of expressive fabric collage. You’ll learn how to turn your fabric scraps into sustainable textile art, then bring your piece to life with hand-stitched embellishments that add depth, texture, and your unique touch.

Whether your piece becomes a stand-alone work of art, a study for something bigger, or the stunning centerpiece of a quilt, you’ll leave inspired—and probably a little bit obsessed with fabric collage!

Come ready to explore, stitch, and create something beautifully you.

Supply List:

  • Fabric scissors with fine sharp points
  • Glue pen & refills (Sewline or other brands)
  • Assorted needles and pins
  • All-purpose thread (50wt) in grey
  • Kit
  •  

Kit is $50 and includes: all material necessary to complete your collage (background, vase and flower composition) and includes access to a large selection of Kaffe Fassett’s fabrics, Steam a Seam 2 Lite, templates and embroidery threads.   Pick up kit in class, cash only please.

Seaside Stitches: Pebbles from the Caribbean

Seaside Stitches: Pebbles from the Caribbean

Play with color, pattern, and texture in this vibrant workshop!

Inspired by the soft, rounded shapes of beach pebbles and the joyful palette of the Caribbean, this hands-on class will show you how to turn fabric scraps into a stunning wall hanging full of movement and personality.

You’ll dive into raw edge appliqué techniques while exploring how to use color confidently—learning to mix bold prints, scale, and texture to create visual flow and balance. With no templates and no rules, you’ll cut and compose freely, discovering how to let the fabrics guide you in a design that’s completely your own.

Supply List:

  • Fabric scissors with fine sharp points
  • Glue pen & refills (Sewline or other brands)
  • Assorted needles and pins
  • 12wt cotton threads or stranded embroidery threads in various colours
  • Sharps needles with large eye
  • Kit

Kit is $50 and will be available to purchase and collected on the day of the workshop.

Cash only, please.

 

 

STAFF PROJECTS

Stitch and Wine

We invite you to join us for a relaxed and heartwarming evening of stitching, laughter, and connection. Whether you’re putting the finishing touches on your class project, diving into a personal UFO (unfinished object), or simply stitching whatever brings you joy, this is the perfect time to unwind in good company.

We’ll gather in a comfortable space, a glass of red or white wine in hand, and the soft hum of conversation filling the air. It’s a chance to reflect on the memories we’ve made, share stories, admire each other’s work, and just soak in the creative energy around us.

And if stitching isn’t calling your name that evening, that’s perfectly okay—you’re warmly welcome to come simply for the fellowship. Sometimes the best part is just being together, surrounded by kindred spirits as the sun dips below the horizon.

Fee: $10 (waived if you’re not joining us for wine).
Sign-up is required so we can be sure to have enough wine for everyone who’s sipping!

**Does not count as a class choice.

Upscale Your Clothing with Hand Embroidery

 

Upscale Your Clothing

Give your clothing a creative upgrade! Whether you’re looking to add a personal and creative touch, elevate a plain garment, or cleverly cover up a stain or small tear, hand embroidery is a fun and stylish solution.

Join our friendly staff for a hands-on workshop where you’ll learn how to decorate or upcycle your favorite piece—new or gently worn. Just bring a garment or two you’d like to transform, and we’ll provide playful, nature-inspired embroidery motifs to get you started.

We’ll walk you through the how to’s of  embroidering on clothing, share tips on choosing stitches that best suit your fabric and design, and help you get comfortable with the basics. Each participant will receive a kit that includes an embroidery hoop, thread, needle, and stabilizer—everything you need to dive in.

This workshop is perfect for beginners—no previous embroidery experience needed. Come stitch with us!

Kit: $12

Pricing

Cruise only pricing for the 2026 Caribbean Quilt Bee at Sea. 6\

8 Day EASTERN CARIBBEAN: GREATER ANTILLES & LEEWARD ISLANDS

VERY LIMITED AVAILABILITY

The following rates are good for new bookings only.  Booked in BEST AVAILABLE OF  CATEGORY

Prices include port fees, governent surcharges and taxes.

Category Double Occupancy Single Occupancy

Inside Cabin 

$1499
$2698

Ocean View (window)   

$1899
$3298

Verandah  

$2199
$3798

Vista Suite  

$2999
$5398

Signature Suite   

$4499
$8298

Neptune Suite  SB category

$4959
$9298

Neptune Suite SA Category

$5459
$10198
The above pricing may be higher than rates charged by Holland America. This addition to the HAL price covers additional costs to us which we must pass along in order to host the cruise. This would include the cost of the teacher cabins as well as staff travel expenses, staff cabins, sewing machines, sewing machine techinical support person, incidental expenses and any event space charges we might incur. You are agreeing to pay this price when you book the cruise.

**Quilters in addition to the above cruise only prices there is a $390 fee for all of the exclusive to quilter activities below as well as some additional surprises.


Quilting activities include teacher wages, teacher travel expenses, teacher cabins, use of rooms, special events and more. This DOES NOT INCLUDE personal quilting or sewing supplies, kits or materials necessary for your workshops.

Your quilter cruise fare includes: 

What is not included with your cruise fare?

The above rates are capacity controlled by the cruise line. The cabin and rate cannot be guaranteed until the cruise line confirms availability and price once your registration is received.  

Please inquire about availability for 3rd/4th person cabins at worldofquiltstravel@gmail.com as they are not guaranteed until booked with Holland America.    Please inquire for additional availability in other categories. IF available, there are no 3rd and 4th person non-quilter discounts as a discount has already been applied to the cabin. Specials and offers or gifts for a cabin that might be provided by Holland America apply to the first two guests only.  

Surcharges and port taxes/fees are not included in the above prices and are $299 per person. Cabins are booked in the best available in each group class category, not all categories are available at the above rates.  

Workshops: Due to unexpected circumstances, we reserve the right to substitute teachers or projects at any time.   There is a minimum and maximum size for each workshop.  Space in a workshop or open sewing is not guaranteed. Open sewing workshop space is limited.

You may make a cabin selection based on current availability, however, BEST AVAILABLE allows you to be eligible for a complimentary upgrade should one become available (not guaranteed). Should you choose a cabin, you are locked into that cabin.

A passport is required, your passport must be valid for 6 months after the return of this cruise.   

Fare(s) in USD, per person, based on double occupancy, cruise only, subject to availability, are capacity controlled, may be limited by residency. Holland America reserves the right to impose a fuel supplement of up to $12 per person per day on all passengers if the NYMEX oil price exceeds $70 per barrel, even if the fare has already been paid in full. Additional surcharges including Port and Government fees of $295, Passport fees, shore tours, gratuities (suggested, $16/day pp up) and insurance are not included in the above pricing. Other restrictions may apply. Third person in a category rate applies only after two quilters are paying the regular quilter cabin rate in a cabin, special offers only valid for first 2 in cabin. Availability and any special offers by the cruise line are not guaranteed until a deposit is received and a booking is made. Holland America and Deb Roberts Tours are not responsible for omissions or typographical errors. Travel protection is optional. Flexibility during cruise port time is allowed so each passenger may enjoy the area at their leisure. As port time is often quite limited, unless specified on this website, escorted trips to quilt shops or group activities are not planned while on shore so that one has control of their own time in each port. Guests are encouraged to wait until the group is confirmed as a go prior to purchasing independent airline tickets.

Complimentary room service is applicable to that menu provided by Holland America with no charges. Room service gratuities are not included. 

©2011-2025 Holland America

To participate in the included activities and receive the above inclusions – the cruise must be booked through Deb Roberts’ Tours. Passports must be valid for 6 months after the end of this cruise/tour.

About Our Ship

Learn more about sister ships, the Eurodam, Zuiderdam and Noordam

Inside

Interior cabins feature two lower beds that convert to a queen-sized bed and private bathroom with shower. All staterooms include bathrobes, Elemis bath amenities, complimentary fresh fruit, flat-panel TV and DVD player, personal safe, telephone, and hair dryer. Some cabins may be configured differently than pictured.

Oceanview

Oceanview cabins feature a picture window, two lower beds that convert to a queen-sized bed, and private bathroom with tub/shower combination. All staterooms include bathrobes, Elemis bath amenities, complimentary fresh fruit, flat-panel TV and DVD player, personal safe, telephone, and hair dryer. Some cabins may be configured differently than pictured.

*Obstructed Ocean View category = there may be a portion of a column or a lifeboat blocking the view from the window.

Verandah

Balcony/ Verandah staterooms feature floor-to-ceiling glass windows with a door that opens to a private balcony, two lower beds that convert to a queen-sized bed, sitting area, and private bathroom with tub/shower combination. All staterooms include bathrobes, Elemis bath amenities, complimentary fresh fruit, flat-panel TV and DVD player, personal safe, telephone, and hair dryer. Some cabins may be configured differently than pictured.

Vista Suite

With a teak-lined verandah, floor-to-ceiling windows and comfortable sitting area, these comfortable suites are filled with light. They include two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner’s Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, plus a shower with premium massage head and a refrigerator. The configuration of staterooms may vary from the image shown.

Signature Suite

Signature Suites feature 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, bathroom with dual-sink vanity, full-size whirlpool bath & shower & additional shower stall, large sitting area, private verandah, 1 sofa bed for 1 person, floor-to-ceiling windows, binoculars and umbrellas for use during cruise Luxury bathrobes, expanded Elemis bath amenities, complimentary fresh fruit, flat-panel TV and DVD player, personal safe, telephone, and hair dryer. Some cabins may be configured differently than pictured.

Neptune Suite

The Neptune Suites feature 2 lower beds convertible to 1 king-size bed, bathroom with dual sink vanity, full-size whirlpool bath, shower and additional shower stall, large sitting area, dressing room, private verandah, 1 sofa bed for 2 persons, floor-to-ceiling windows. No host mini-bar, fresh flowers, priority dining reservations, concierge at your service, expanded Elemis bath amenities, binoculars and umbrellas for use during cruise, complimentary laundry, pressing and dry cleaning, afternoon tea served in your cabin, use of the industry-leading Neptune Lounge features a private place to relax, socialize with other suite guests complimentary wine and champagne as well as exclusive daily breakfast, priority boarding and disembarkation, tendering while in port. Some cabins may be configured differently.

Travel Protection

Frequently Asked Questions – Cruises

World of Quilts Travel offers cruises and/or tours with something for everyone. It is Deb’s goal to provide something unique, showing you a different side of travel while sharing her love of quilts, textiles, traditional crafts and culture.

Our adventures are specifically designed for those who have similar interests and provide a fantastic opportunity to make new friends and share this unique experience with like-minded travelers of all ages.

Below are some answers to frequently asked questions about our trips. If you have any questions which are not answered here or on our FAQ pages for our Tours or Cruises please don’t hesitate to email and I will be happy to get back to you as soon as I can.

Why do people travel to quilt? How often do they travel?

When the terminology “quilt tour” is used, I suppose it does conjure up the vision of ladies and gentlemen traveling to work on quilt. However, quilts and/or textiles are the passion that often brings the group together, and there is not always an active quilting component on every group.

 

The purpose for the experience varies from group to group. I have groups of quilt and textile historians that travel to see historic pieces while other groups travel to shop for exotic and hard to find fabrics. Still, others travel for the fellowship with those who share their enthusiasm. It seems that when one exists, often the actual quilting project is not as important as spending time with others who have a built in connection through quilts and quilt-making.

How often they travel often depends upon their economic and family situation. I have some clients who have been on many of our trips, others who travel with me once a year, and some who look at a single tour as a way to a brief respite from the ordinary.

What are the essentials/basics of a quilt/textile cruise or tour?

Outside of providing value in a quilt and textile related vacation experience, inspiration is the key essential on any trip; this is found in many ways. Quilters and textile enthusiasts are often inspired by landscapes, museum visits, quilts and textiles they see, by sharing with each other and the bonds they make with their fellow travelers. While the focus of any itinerary is inspired by quilts, a theme is often important in terms of how local quilt-making customs or historic textiles relate to the community that is being visited. One activity that most everyone looks forward to is any opportunity to shop for unusual or locally produced fabrics that will further inspire their quilt-making once they return home.

 

On our quilt history tours, for those who are historians, I feel it is important to include visits to historic archives and provide unusual opportunities to see antique quilts that are not often available for public viewing. An essential element for me then as a quilter as well as a quilt historian is to have a professional relationship with my colleagues within these institutions as this often opens doors to archives where we would not otherwise have access.

I believe it is helpful when the planner is knowledgeable about quilts and spends time with quilters in areas not surrounded by travel. As a quilter, show judge, appraiser and author, I spend a lot of time around quilts and quilt-makers. This helps me know their special interests and my tours are planned specifically around these things; they are not tours planned and then marketed to those who make quilts. In order for them to produce results, I have noticed a number of “quilt tour” providers that have hired a guest quilter to accompany a land tour group. Many times, this may seem like a benefit to the traveler, but, just as often, an additional cost is added to the tour in order to pay for the famous named guest who is coming along. I will not burden my travelers with those types of additional charges. If I feel that having such a guest would benefit a group or the overall tour experience, I will have one, but it is not a factor I often consider.

 

It is also important to have knowledge of class and workshop limitations. When planning actual quilting classes the planner should be aware of time constraints, materials and the facility suitability to the project.

I believe my most popular destinations to date have been Ireland, France and Bali, each for different reasons. The beauty of Ireland speaks for itself and we enjoy many scenic vistas along our way. Additionally, we stop at quilt shops up and down the Emerald Isle.  Often, we’ve been compared to an “Irish Quilt Shop Hop”. France is known in history for its contributions to both the fabric and quilt world, and Bali for its exquisite batik fabrics and special culture.

 

Our most popular cruises have been the ones that go to Alaska, the European Christmas Markets or international destinations such as the Baltic or Asia.

 

The most popular activity by far is shopping. I try to plan tours that not only offer rewarding textile experiences but also provide a truly memorable experience. Most of my travelers choose a destination they have always wanted to visit.

What is it about World of Quilts Travel that you would like to share?

As a quilter and travel enthusiast, I plan each tour as if I am planning it for myself or my family. I take every stop into consideration. It sometimes takes weeks or longer to create the perfect itinerary. To me, travel is about the total experience as well as providing a good value and I do all that I can to keep the travel experience affordable. I am not a large travel agency; all of my group travel experiences are simply about quilts and textiles.

 

When selecting a quilt tour or cruise provider, it is important to note there may be others who promote quilt trips that will happen to coincide with their other special-interest group tours. While it might be a fun group I believe that it might be surprise for a group of 10 quilters to find themselves sharing a motor coach with poker players (this has happened). This would be a convenient way for some to fill a coach, but I do not mind keeping my groups small. I find when everyone in a group shares the same passion, bonding is almost instant. Always ask your quilt tour provider if they are promoting the same tour or cruise to any other type of hobby or interest group.

 

I promote quilt related travel simply for the joy of sharing the world of quilts and textiles with others. I love to travel – and what better way is there to see things than with others who share similar interests.

Who travels on your tours?

Our travelers are of all ages and from all parts of the world. They share a passion for quilts and quilting, textiles, arts and crafts, and share a desire to connect with the lives and cultures in the places they visit. Many who travel with us are first time travelers, while others have done a lot of travel in the past but are looking for something unique that they can’t organize on their own and/or enjoy the company of others with the same interests. The age group of our tour participants ranges from around 35 to 85 years of age but we have had travelers from 13 up join our groups.

Can husbands or companions join a quilt or textile focused tour?

Yes absolutely – although we focus on quilts and textiles there is always something else for those with other interests to do or see. In general, about 20 – 25% of our groups are companions in this category. We always have husbands who come along, so if you want to bring yours, chances are he will not be the only one.

What if I don’t want to participate in the various visits, educational opportunities or hands-on classes?

While Deb does provide a variety of visits, hands-on classes and workshops they are not mandatory. This is your vacation; you may do whatever you like. While the activities are designed for every level and many are purely for fun and interaction with the local people, if there are any activities that you don’t want to do – just let us know and we will suggest alternative activities for you or you may adventure out on your own.

How fit do I have to be to join a tour?

Some of the tours do have periods that require active walking and a few may feature extended coach or train rides (greater than 4 hours) We have found that most people of normal fitness and mobility are able to participate fully. Those who may have difficulty walking may participate at a level comfortable to them. Please see our terms and conditions regarding health issues. Because we are not aware of any individual’s health condition, we do ask that you receive an okay from your health practitioner to participate on any of our tours.

What if I’m a single traveler?

Our groups are a mix of single travelers, couples and friends. If you are a solo traveler and wish to share with someone we will attempt to find someone else on the tour who wishes to share a room. If there is no one wanting to share the only difference in your cost is that of the single room supplement that we pay to our hotels or you may choose not to participate with a full refund of your deposit.

Do you provide travel protection?

Yes, we provide travel protection through several suppliers. On your trip web page, a link is provided to the travel insurance coverage which will also provide you with information about the insurer. You may choose to purchase travel protection through us, or from any provider of your choice. There are many online travel insurance options available to you.

Is travel protection mandatory?

No, we provide it as an option to you, or you can purchase it from any travel insurance provider. However, because unexpected things do happen, we strongly suggest that you have coverage.

Is my deposit refundable?

Yes, your deposit is completely refundable (less a $100 administration fee, $200 administration fee if on a Viking Cruise) if you change your travel plans and cancel up to 45 days prior to the final payment deadline. Please refer to our terms and conditions for additional tour or cruise refund rules.

When do I have to make the final payment for the trip?

Final payment is approximately 90 days prior to the beginning of any cruise or tour. You will receive an invoice by email about 30 days prior to the deadline.

How do I pay?

You may pay with a personal check (if you reside in the US), money order, cashier or bank check (if you reside outside of the US) or, you may use PayPal or Google Pay. Please note, the quoted tour price includes a 3% discount for those paying in by check. Those who choose to pay through PayPal using a credit card will not receive this discount.

What if I wait to sign up for the trip after the final payment deadline?

You may still sign up for the trip after the final payment deadline, providing there is still space available. We will need your payment in full at the time your register however.

Will I need a passport?

You are required to have a passport valid for six months past your tour date for trips outside your country of citizenship.

Will I need to get immunizations?

Most of our tours do not require special immunizations, but some do. Your health care provider is the best judge as to what you may need for your trip. To guide you as to possible immunizations suggested for your itinerary, please refer to http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel.

I am hoping that some of these answers to frequently asked questions about our cruises and cruise events will help you learn more about our programs, if not, please feel free to ask your questions by emailing me at info@worldofquiltstravel.com and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

How soon do I need to register?

We suggest that you register as soon as you know you want to join us. Many of our cruises categories (sometimes including the entire ship) sell out quickly and we have disappointed would be travelers.

What cruise lines do you use?

We only use cruise lines that have universally high ratings and are also “quilter” friendly, in that they allow us to hold classes and related events without much restriction. Generally, we use the following cruise lines: Princess, Holland America and on river cruises we utilize the services of Viking

Do you provide sewing machines?

Yes, whenever they are required for a project, we provide them. We use a variety of dealers, Bernina, Janome, Brother, etc. Not familiar with the machines? No worries as we also provide technical support for the machines during the entire time that machines are in use. You will never even have to thread a needle or wind a bobbin on one of our quilting cruises, our support technicians are always there to assist you in any way so that you have an enjoyable experience.

Is there an opportunity to sew when class is not in session?

Yes, we provide ample open sewing time each evening and at other times when class is not in session. During this time you may work on anything you wish, including  Make-it/Take-it projects or demos when they are offered.

How do I choose my cabin?

We offer inside, ocean view (window) and balcony cabins. If there are suites available to us, we will offer these as well. We will book you in the best available cabin in the category you choose – guaranteed. If you would like to request a certain cabin you may, however, it may not be in our block or it may outside of our pricing category. If this is the case we will do what we can to get you the cabin of your choice for the additional cost of the cabin. However, the reason we like to ‘guarantee’ you the best cabin in a category rather than make a choice on a particular cabin as this gives you a better chance of receiving a complimentary upgrade. If you would like us to try to book a particular cabin for you, please indicate this on the registration form.

What about my flight?

As our cruises leave from departure ports from all over the world and our guests also come from many areas, it is impossible for us to arrange a group flight for cruises. However, this also allows you to fly when you want and from where you want at the best price you can find. It is also a way to use your airline miles or points. We will notify you as soon as we know that our cruise is a ‘go’ so that you may look for the best airfare that suits you. If you would like us to book your air for you, upon request, we are happy to do this, just let us know. We will also arrange transfers between the airport and the ship when you select the appropriate box on the registration form. If you do not wish to make your own air arrangements, we are happy to assist you.

Is transportation provided between the ship and the airport?

Cruise lines generally runs buses the day of the cruise for a fee which will be a choice for you on your registration form. If you are coming in the day before, you will need to find your own transportation to the hotel and cruise terminal. Many hotels offer free transportation from the airports.

What time do I need to arrive in the departure port city on the day of my cruise?

We ask that you plan to arrive no later than 12 noon on the day of your cruise departure, the earlier the better. Please take into account that there may be flight delays and book your flight so that you have an alternative should this occur.

What time should I book my flight to leave for home once the cruise is over?

On the day of embarkation, cruise lines suggest not booking flights that depart before 12 noon.

What if I want to arrive a day or two before the cruise departs?

Frequently we will include a pre-cruise hotel option and this will be indicated on the cruise information page or the information will be sent to you in a separate email. Otherwise, we can provide the name of suitable hotels for you to make a reservation.

How do I register for shore excursions?

Once we receive your registration, we book you with the cruise line and email you your booking number. From here, you may go onto the cruise line website to review and book your shore excursions directly with the cruise line. Wherever possible, we will arrange custom shore excursions to suit the interest of the group. When we do this, this will be indicated on the cruise web page or included in a special email.

What is included in the price of my quilting cruise?

If you are a quilter, in addition to the cruise, your cruise includes onboard quilting parties and events, workshops and sewing machines are included in the price. If a teacher has a kit or a required pattern and there is an additional fee the cost will be payable directly to the teacher. Information on kits or other materials, including price, will be listed on the website where class information is available.

To be certain of what we do include, everything that is indicated on the individual cruise itinerary pricing page and is listed as ‘included’ is covered by your quilter cruise cost.

How do I choose my classes or workshops?

About 90 days prior to departure, we will send out a class enrollment form by email. You will choose your classes and submit the form to us any time after this date. Classes will be filled on a first come first serve basis. Most get their first class choices, rarely does anyone not get their first or second choice.

What about dining?

Cruise ships offer several dining options. Except for dinner, these are very flexible. Unless a sponsor of a cruise requests that everyone dine together, we request flexible (anytime) dinner dining for everyone. This way, you may eat when and where you want, even in the dining room where you will have the same menu as those who participate in an early or late dinner service.

What about formal nights?

Cruise ships will indicate how many formal or gala nights they have on a cruise on their own registration pages. We will try to indicate the formal nights on our cruise event calendar, however they are subject to change, and frequently cruise lines do change this night sometime during the cruise. Changes such as this are out of our control. The number of formal nights differ for each cruise line and cruise itinerary. Formal or gala nights are optional, meaning if you do not wish to dress in what is referred to as cocktail or formal attire, then you may dine somewhere of your choice other than the main dining rooms. For those wishing to join the Formal Night dinner festivities, we suggest that ladies bring a pair of black pants and a dressy top or cocktail dress. For men, a jacket is minimally required.

What about tips?

Cruise lines will automatically charge a set amount (around $13-15 a day per person) to your shipboard account to cover tips for your room steward and dining room staff. Once the cruise begins, you are free to make an adjustment to this amount at any time by submitting a form that the ship’s front desk will supply.