Maximize Your Quilting Cruise Experience
Geraldine Wilkins 
Learn top tips for a successful quilting cruise adventure.
Gyleen Fitzgerald, Latifah Saafir and Geraldine Wilkins are putting together an unique cruise experience to the Eastern Carribbean. Join them on the Holland America 9-day cruise to 5 ports. During sea days there are several quilting classes with each instructor.
Gyleen Fitzgerald and Geraldine Wilkins had a wonderful conversation filled with quilting tips. Watch the full interview on the Living Water Quilter's YouTube channel.
A curated Quilt Cruise Gear & Supplies listed on the Living Water Quilter Amazon page.
How to Maximize Your Quilting Cruise Experience
Embarking on a quilting cruise is an exciting adventure that combines your love of quilting with the joy of travel. To ensure you have the best experience possible, here are some top tips and the importance of travel insurance and handling emergencies.
- Selecting the Perfect Cabin: Learn how to choose the right cabin based on your preferences, budget, and location on the ship.
- Packing Efficiently: Discover what essentials to pack, extras for cabin comfort, and tips for shore excursions.
- Enhancing Cabin Comfort: Simple additions can make your cabin feel more like home.
- Preparing for Shore Excursions: Tips for what to pack in your day bag and how to plan your activities.
- Staying Healthy and Safe: Important health and safety tips to follow during your cruise.
- Avoiding Seasickness: Remedies and preventive measures to ensure smooth sailing.
- Understanding Cruise Policies and International Travel: Key protocols and policies to follow on the cruise and tips for international travel.
- Travel Insurance and Handling Emergencies: The importance of travel insurance and tips for handling emergencies effectively.
Selecting the Perfect Cabin
Choosing the right cabin is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable cruise experience. The variety of cabin options allows you to tailor your choice based on your preferences and budget. Whether you prefer the affordability of an interior cabin or the luxury of a suite, understanding your options is key. Here are three tips to help you select the perfect cabin:
1. Consider Your Preferences and Budget
Choosing the right cabin is crucial for a comfortable cruise. Options typically range from interior cabins to ocean-view, balcony, and suite cabins. Here are a few considerations:
Interior Cabins:
These are the most budget-friendly but lack windows. Great if you plan to spend most of your time exploring the ship. This is a good option for those who spend more time attending ship activities than in the cabin. $
Ocean-View Cabins:
These offer a window or porthole, providing natural light and views of the sea. Need a little sunlight? The cost is a little more, yet still budget friendly. $$
Balcony Cabins:
Perfect for those who enjoy fresh air and private outdoor space. Fill your cabin with fresh air, take in the sea view and enjoy meals in the privacy of your cabin balcony. $$$
Suites:
For those seeking luxury, suites offer the most space and amenities.These are great for parties of three or more. They are great for those celebrating life's special milestones, like wedding anniversaries, birthdays, and family reunions. $$$$
2. Location Matters
The location of your cabin can greatly impact your cruise experience. Midship cabins are centrally located and offer the smoothest ride, making them ideal for those prone to seasickness. Cabins on higher decks provide better views but can be more prone to movement. Consider a cabin near elevators and stairs for convenience, but be mindful of potential noise. Give careful thought of the ship deck on which your cabin is located. Is the deck above or below an entertainment or dining deck that have constant traffic and high levels of noise?
A curated Quilt Cruise Gear & Supplies listed on the Living Water Quilter Amazon page.
3. Accessibility
Consider your mobility and accessibility needs when selecting a cabin. If you have limited mobility, choose a cabin close to elevators and key areas like dining rooms and entertainment venues. Accessible cabins designed for passengers with disabilities are also available on most ships, offering features such as wider doorways, roll-in showers, and grab bars.
Watch the full interview on the Living Water Quilter's YouTube channel.
Packing for Your Quilting Cruise
Packing efficiently is essential for a smooth trip. You'll want to ensure you have everything you need without overpacking, as cabin space is often limited. These are just a few of items listed in a curated Quilt Cruise Gear & Supplies list in the Living Water Quilter Amazon page. Here are four tips for packing smartly:
1. Essentials
Make sure you bring all necessary travel documents, including your passport, cruise tickets, travel insurance, and emergency contacts. For clothing, pack lightweight, breathable items for daytime, smart casual outfits for evenings, and formal attire if your cruise includes formal nights.
2. Extras for Cabin Comfort
To enhance your cabin experience, pack a power strip without surge protection, since most cabins have limited outlets. Bringing a hanging organizer can help maximize bathroom space, keeping your toiletries organized and easily accessible. Many cabins has metal walls therefore magnet hooks are ideal to hang towels, jackets, totes and more.
3. Plan Ahead
Planning for shore excursions involves more than just booking your activities. Pack a day bag with comfortable shoes for exploring ports, weather-appropriate gear such as a rain jacket, hat, and sunscreen. A reusable water bottle is handy for staying hydrated throughout the day. Bring snacks and water to keep you energized and hydrated on shore excursions. A camera or smartphone is essential for capturing memories and scenic views.
4. Additional Supplies
There are many convenience supplies that can help create an enjoyable cruise. Find the right supplies to suit your lifestyle, shore excursions and ship activities. These are just a few of items listed in a curated Quilt Cruise Gear & Supplies list in the Living Water Quilter Amazon page. Some of those could be:
- flip flops
- towel bands
- selfie- stick
- sunscreen
- rain poncho
- inflatable pillow
- metal straws
- hand sanitizer
- water bottle
- collapsible hamper
Packing for Quilting Classes
Attending quilting classes on a cruise is one of the main attractions for quilting enthusiasts. Ensure you have all the necessary supplies to participate fully in the classes. Pack prepaid kits from each class in an easy pack-and-store project bag. Here are three tips for packing your sewing supplies:
1. Follow the Class Supply List
Bring all items listed on the class supply list provided by the quilting cruise instructor. If you have questions about the list, reach out to the instructor with an email.
2. Organize Your Supplies
Use clear, labeled plastic bags or a small organizer to keep your supplies neat and easily accessible. This will save time and keep the shared workspace tidy during classes.
3. Bring Extras
Don’t overpack, but do pack a few extras in case of any mistakes. Consider bringing additional small projects you may want to start or continue. These are self-contained projects that can be worked on poolside or at night while using a personal night light.
A curated Quilt Cruise Gear & Supplies listed on the Living Water Quilter Amazon page.
Preparing for Shore Excursions
Shore excursions are a highlight of any cruise, offering a chance to explore new destinations and cultures. Proper preparation ensures you get the most out of these experiences. Here are three tips to help you prepare for shore excursions:
1. Pack a Day Bag
Having a well-prepared day bag is essential for shore excursions. Include comfortable walking shoes to navigate various terrains, weather-appropriate gear such as a rain jacket, hat, hand sanitizer and sunscreen, and pack snacks and water to stay energized and hydrated throughout your adventure. Carry medications in case of emergencies. Don’t forget your camera or smartphone. Bring a selfie stick to easily get photos of yourself in scenic views and capture memories.
2. Plan Ahead
Research your ports of call in advance to know the highlights and must-see attractions. Book popular cruise ship excursions early to avoid disappointment, as they can fill up quickly. Consider your interests and physical capabilities when selecting activities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Always check cruise policies regarding excursion cancellations and timely return to the ship before the ship departs the port.
3. Stay Safe
Always be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables secure. Stick to well-traveled areas and follow the advice of your tour guides. Carry a copy of the ship's daily schedule and port contact information in case you need assistance or need to return to the ship quickly. Beware of people who seem polite and have a “good” deal for a port tour or souvenir, but are targeting tourists for a scam.
Staying Healthy and Safe
Your health and safety are paramount during your cruise. By following a few simple tips, you can reduce exposure and stay healthy and safe:
1. Health Tips
Staying hydrated is crucial, so drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Practicing good hygiene by using hand sanitizer and washing hands frequently can help prevent illness. Being sun smart by using sunscreen and wearing protective clothing will protect you from harmful UV rays. Pack all necessary medications. Know where the ship medical facilities are located.
Consult your doctor for how to medically prepare for travel. Get any vaccinations required for international countries. Get a tentius shot if you haven't had one in more than 10 years.
Do not overeat. Do you have food allergices. Let cruise line personnel know if they are life threatening and be careful of cross contamination. Carry a fast-acting Epipen if needed.
2. Safety Tips
Keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings to ensure your safety. Follow cruise protocols, including safety drills and instructions from the crew. These measures are designed to keep all passengers safe and informed during the cruise. Some areas of a ship maybe slippery when wet, wear shoes that have a grip shoe.
3. Understand Cruise Policies
Understanding cruise policies and procedures is essential for a smooth and enjoyable experience. Visit the cruise line website and thoroughly read policies and procedures. Attend the mandatory safety drills, familiarize yourself with dining options and dress codes, and keep an eye on the daily newsletters provided by the cruise line. These newsletters include the day’s schedule, port information, and important announcements.
Pay attention to passenger code of conduct. Learn the process for reporting accidents and incidents with fellow passengers and ship crew members.
4. Avoiding Seasickness
Seasickness can affect your enjoyment of the cruise. By taking preventive measures, you can minimize the chances of feeling unwell:
5. Remedies and Tips
Contact your a medical professional for remedies specific to you. Over-the-counter medications like Dramamine or prescription patches can help prevent seasickness. Natural remedies such as ginger candies, acupressure bands, and staying hydrated are also effective. Choosing a midship cabin on a lower deck can minimize motion and help avoid seasickness.
A curated Quilt Cruise Gear & Supplies listed on the Living Water Quilter Amazon page.
Understanding Cruise Protocols and International Travel
1. Cruise Protocols
Safety drills are mandatory for all passengers and crucial for your safety. Familiarize yourself with dining options and dress codes, as this will enhance your dining experience. Pay attention to daily newsletters, which provide the day’s schedule, port information, and important announcements.
2. International Travel Tips
When traveling internationally, be aware of the local currency and exchange rates. Consider an international phone plan or local SIM card for communication. Learn basic phrases and customs of the countries you’ll visit to show respect and enhance your experience. There are translation and currency apps you can download to your cell phone and use as needed. Be respectful of the people and culture at ports of call.
3.Travel Insurance and Handling Emergencies
Travel insurance is a critical component of any trip, especially on a cruise where unforeseen circumstances can arise. Handling emergencies efficiently ensures your safety and peace of mind. Here are three tips for understanding travel insurance and preparing for emergencies:
1. Get Comprehensive Travel Insurance
Investing in comprehensive travel insurance can protect you from a range of issues, including medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage. Make sure your policy covers all aspects of your trip, including international travel and specific activities you plan to undertake.
2. Keep Emergency Contacts Handy
Always have a list of emergency contacts, including the cruise ship’s medical team, local emergency services, and your insurance provider. Knowing who to call and having the necessary information readily available can make a significant difference in an emergency situation. If you have specific health concerns, include contact information for your doctor. Provide contact information for the next of kin who has medical power of attorney.
3. Know the Ship’s Emergency Procedures
Familiarize yourself with the ship's emergency procedures, including evacuation routes and muster stations. Attend safety drills and pay attention to instructions from the crew. In the event of an emergency, knowing what to do and where to go can ensure your safety.
By following these tips, you can create a smooth and enjoyable quilting cruise experience. For more detailed information use links below
LEARN MORE:
Tropical Quilting Retreat At Sea Brochure
Maximize Your Quilting Cruise Experience - Tips from Gyleen
Visit Gyleen Fitzgerald website Colourful Stitches.
Categories: : Quilt Cruise
