FEATURED CRUISE

Viking Passage Knitting Cruise

18-Day Cruise w/ Maggie Jackson
July 2-20, 2016

Crossing the Atlantic allows travelers to fly to Europe and cruise back while visiting the most scenic ports in the North Atlantic. This popular knitting cruise follows a route once used by the Vikings where you'll find inspiration in every port by connecting with local designers, shopping for souvenir yarn and learning about regional knitting traditions. We invite you to join fellow knitters on this cruise where you'll make new friends, improve your knitting skills and be pampered onboard Holland America Line's ms Rotterdam while cruising through some of the most stunning seascapes in the world.

Summertime is the perfect time to cruise the North Atlantic to escape the summer heat back home. Cruising enthusiasts will enjoy the rugged coastal scenery, marine wildlife, mild climates and maritime communities found in this region and knitters will enjoy stimulating their creativity on this trip of a lifetime.

Be wowed by the design inspiration of Maggie Jackson onboard as well as by local designers in the ports you'll visit along the way. On this trip you will see the work of such popular favorites as Stephen West at his shop in Amsterdam, Solveig Hisdal at Oleana just outside Bergen, Hazel Tindall at the Shetland Textile Museum in Lerwick, the hand knitters of Iceland who design gorgeous Lopapeysa sweaters using wool made from Icelandic sheep at the Álafoss Wool Store near Reykjavik and Lucy Neatby at Tradewind Knits in Halifax.

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Before the Cruise

Amsterdam is, in a word, fabulous. Here visitors can take a canal cruise, visit one of many famous museums including the Van Gogh, Hermitage, Rembrandt and Anne Frank House or shop for souvenir yarn at such popular yarn shops as Stephen & Penelope, Weldraad and de Afstap.

Classes in Amsterdam

Arrive early and take a class with well-known designer Stephen West in his shop, Stephen & Penelope. Pick out a pattern or buy souvenir yarn to start a new project on the cruise. This shop is full of Stephen's gorgeous shawls and a selection of yarn that is sure to please even the most savvy of yarn connoisseurs.

At Weltraad, learn about Dutch yarn and gansey sweaters. Anna, the owner, is excited to share her knowledge of Dutch knitting and yarns with the group and plans to offer a workshop featuring the lovely patterns of local designer, Annita Wilschut. Annita is the designer who created the the cutest monkey on Ravelry, Jacobus. Jacobus is knit in the round in one piece without seams and has been translated to English making it a perfect souvenir project for this cruise.

INSTRUCTOR & TRIP LEADER

Maggie Jackson

Maggie Jackson is from Northern Ireland but now calls the United States home. She is an expert knitter, designer and teacher who is looking forward to finding local inspiration on this cruise with other knitters who share her love of creativity. Maggie started designing in 1977 and is working on some exciting new colors and designs to celebrate 40 successful years in the knitwear industry. Maggie is the founder and creative genius behind Maggi Knits, a contemporary line of “Ready to Wear” garments that are designed by her and knit by her team of expert knitters in Ireland. Maggie’s career has evolved greatly over the years and she’s looking forward to sharing the stories of her life and career with you.

Maggie is an innovative knitwear designer who has created hundreds of unique designs and original patterns. Maggie teaches knitting workshops sharing her expertise and design background while bringing her Irish wit and sense of humor into the classroom. Maggie's mantra "Be Different. Be Bold. Think Outside the Box." inspires knitters to take their knitting in a whole new direction. Maggie has created a unique on-board program focusing on design, wearable art, fashion and knitting techniques to kick your knitting up a notch while having a blast so she invites you to pack up your needles and join her on this adventure.

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Kim Schneibolk

Kim Schneibolk started leading trips for Craft Cruises shortly after cruising the Yangtze with us in 2009. Kim is not only an amazing trip leader but she is also a knitting expert who teaches and coordinates educational programs at her local yarn shop, Woolwinders, in Rockville, MD.

Kim started knitting in 1999 and, like many of us, quickly became obsessed by knowing as much about knitting as possible. Kim enjoys helping others find greater enjoyment in their knitting as well as helping travelers feel safe and confident while having a blast exploring the world. Kim lives in Gaithersburg with her husband, two daughters, and mini poodle. When Kim is not knitting, teaching or traveling she enjoys hiking, tennis, and watching hockey.

Bergen, Norway

Oleana Factory Tour, Dye House and Outlet

Take a private Craft Cruise tour to Oleana. Oleana is an outstanding Norwegian knitwear company with an outlet store in the heart of Bergen and sweater factory just outside of town. Oleana uses only natural fibers like wool, silk, alpaca and cashmere and is one of the last knitting companies to knit and sew all their products in Norway. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about the modern textile culture in Norway and about the Oleana tradition of making the finest knitwear in Norway.

Oleana was founded in 1992, with the aim of creating new jobs in Norway's textile industry while many in Europe moved production to countries with cheaper labor. Oleana's collection is produced in its own factory just outside of Bergen. "Fair made" is a slogan this company takes pride in using. Located a short and scenic drive from Bergen, Oleana is the factory by the fjord.

Housed in an old textile mill with huge windows along a fjord, this used to be the largest mill in Norway; sitting vacant for many years, it has sprung back to life now thanks to Oleana. Walk around and see colorful knitwear being made right on the factory floor, shop in the outlet, see the on-site dye house and textile museum all while taking in the lovely scenery of the fjord just outside the big windows.

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Lerwick, Shetland

Lerwick, the most northerly town in Scotland, is a treat for all who visit. With a history dating back more than 3,000 years these narrow pedestrian-friendly streets lined with quaint shops and cafes are inviting and have a history to tell. It's like taking a trip back in time surrounded by nature and wildlife. The ocean and cliffs bring much marine wildlife and birds including puffins, whales and dolphins among others. Textile tours include visits to craft studios, weaving and knitwear factories and designers, as well as heritage centers, museums and yarn stores.

Jamieson & Smith - Shetland Wool Brokers

This 100% Shetland wool from the Shetland Islands is highly sought after for its quality and range of gorgeous colors. Learn all about this yarn during a private Craft Cruise tour.

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Shetland Museum

Enjoy a private Textile Treasure tour led by an experienced Shetland knitter who is keen on hosting visitors and sharing the history of Shetland knitting. This is Shetland’s most extensive museum exploring the social, industrial and geological history of the Shetland Islands.

This special knitting tour will bring the world of Shetland knitting to life for everyone and you will see special lace exhibits as well as the chance to see local fiber artists demonstrate traditional methods of knitting/spinning during the tour. This museum is often the highlight for most knitters visiting Shetland.

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Shetland Textile Museum

This museum recently opened to celebrate all of Shetland’s fiber textiles. This museum is a popular hangout for demonstrations from the Shetland Guild of Spinners, Knitters, Weavers and Dyers. Exhibits vary but the current exhibit is "Knitting in the Age of Oil" and contains a knitted piece made by the mother of Gudrun Johnson. There is also lace in a permanent exhibit and usually something on display from the textile degree program at the local college.

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Jamieson's of Shetland

Not to be confused with Jamieson & Smith Shetland Wool Brokers, this company also has a long history in the pure Shetland wool industry dating back to the 1890's. Jamieson's of Shetland has their main mill in Sandness and an outlet store in downtown Lerwick selling their yarn and woven garments. Jamieson’s is a family owned business, specializing in wool from the native Shetland sheep for five generations. The family goal is dedicated to the survival of this unique fiber which has now become their life’s ambition.

Recognizing the potential for woven fabrics using these unique colorful yarns, Jamieson’s Spinning installed weaving looms and now produces an extensive range of genuine Shetland Tweeds and blankets. Jamieson’s exclusive Shetland knitwear, fabrics and yarns are now available in premium stores and boutiques worldwide.

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Isafjordur, Iceland

Knitting in Iceland

Knitting is a way of life in Iceland. Not long ago every child was expected to knit at least one pair of mittens a week and still learn how to knit in school. No longer knitting to be thrifty, more are knitting for the pleasure of creating something unique. Throughout Iceland it is common to see people knitting, wearing colorful handknits and to find yarn and handknits sold in such unusual places as gas stations and grocery stores.

The traditional sweater of Iceland is the Lopi. Knit throughout Iceland, these sweaters are sold in areas frequented by visitors. These classic sweaters symbolize knitting in Iceland with circular yokes and colorful worked-in designs. Icelandic wool combines the qualities of softness, sturdiness, and water resistance required in this rugged environment.

Isafjordur is the gateway to the Westfjords region of Iceland. This remote area is home to five villages surrounded by natural coastal beauty, fjords and waterfalls. Small shops carry local specialties including woolen Icelandic knitwear such as sweaters, hats, mittens and cardigans.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Álafoss & the Golden Circle

Take a full day tour visiting Iceland's most popular geothermal attractions and yarn shops including Álafoss located in Mosfellsbær. Álafoss has been a hallmark of quality in Iceland since 1896 when Álafoss began Iceland's wool industry. Located in the old factory house by the waterfall that was used to drive the mills of the old factory, Álafoss has for decades been the leading manufacturer and exporter of Icelandic wool products by utilizing the hand work of many expert knitters who live throughout Iceland.

In addition to a great selection of yarn, there is a great selection of the popular traditional hand knit Icelandic wool sweaters ("lopapeysa"). Here you will also find almost any wool product you can think of as well as experience this important side of Iceland's industrial history in the form of the factory building and an exhibit of a selection of old knitting machinery and photographs from the early days.

Álafoss wool factory is not only a great store to visit for anyone who loves knitting or felting, but carries a great variety of woolen clothes and Icelandic gifts hand crafted by local designers who work with wool and glass. The grounds, waterfalls shop and coffee shop make this entire location an interesting place to visit. Onsite there is also the opportunity to take pictures with Icelandic horses and some of the only trees in Iceland which grow here.

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Geyser

Seeing hot springs blow hot water high into the air is one of South Iceland's most popular attractions. Some of the most famous geysers in the world are here and rank right up there with those in Yellowstone and the North Island of New Zealand. While many are dormant this can change at any time and some of the most active in the world are here. The most active now is Strokkur Ace (translates to "the churn") and blows every few minutes. It is spectacular to video with streams of water shooting as high as 100 feet into the air.

Gullfoss

On the Golden Circle, this is Iceland's most popular attraction and is dubbed the Queen of Icelandic Waterfalls. Gullfoss translates to "Golden Falls" and is the largest waterfall, by volume, in Europe. This natural wonder is absolutely stunning and should not be missed. To stand above these towering falls and to experience the wonder of nature is a truly energizing and uplifting experience. Upon leaving this special place most leave feeling different than when they arrived.

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Downtown Highlights

Reykjavik is a delight to all who visit. It is the gateway to Iceland and is known for being clean, safe, and quirky. Everyone who visits Reykjavik loves its playful personality and its famous Icelandic sweaters. It is easy to get around since there are free shuttles operating frequently and it only takes about ten minutes to walk from the center of town down the hill to the ship.

Most attractions are close to the ship and include Perlan on Öskjuhlíd Hill, Hallgrímskirkj church, Old Town, the National Museum, and the Arbaerjarsafn open air folk museum. Here you will also find knitting cafes and yarn in grocery stores! Strolling along Laugavegur and Skolavordustigur, the main shopping streets in Reykjavik, is a great way to spend some time and shop for yarn and hand knit sweaters. Knitting is a way of life in Iceland so you will find fabulous yarn here and will be inspired by the designs you see. The yarn shops are easily accessible and everyone should keep an eye out for the chance of buying lovely hand-knits in used clothing stores!

Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa

With two full days in Reykjavik visitors have time to visit the Blue Lagoon. A trip to Iceland wouldn't be complete without experiencing the beauty of the Blue Lagoon Hot Springs. Iceland is the land of fire and ice and visitors see this energy used in many ways, from the way wool was originally washed in the hot waters flowing past the mill in Mosfellsbær to the way electricity is produced and homes are heated.

The Blue Lagoon is a beautiful but accidental byproduct of the process of harnessing the Earth's energy 2,000 meters below the surface. This process causes freshwater and seawater to combine at extreme temperatures that cool as they surface for a perfectly re-energizing and relaxing bath. This soothing geothermal water is naturally composed of three active healing ingredients - silica, algae and minerals. It is the silica that makes the lagoon look turquoise blue but visitors are surprised to learn the water is actually milky white.

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Storkurinn

This is the best yarn shop in Reykjavik and is a favorite among local knitters because it carries more than just Icelandic yarn. The owner, Guðrún “Hannele” Henttinen, has really put together an exceptional store and is an expert knitter who enjoys sharing her knowledge about traditional Icelandic knitting with all who visit. In addition to featuring her new book on Icelandic mittens, Hannele is arranging some optional knitting workshops for the those who are interested in learning Icelandic knitting techniques during their visit to Reykjavik.

Qaqortoq & Nanortalik, Greenland

Southern Greenland is called the Banana Coast because agriculture thrives here and it is truly a "green land" in contrast to the barren ice covering the rest of the continent where the polar bears live. This desolate region is home to many species of arctic fauna and awe inspiring views. Because the Arctic Musk Ox lives in the Arctic regions of Greenland it is common to find qiviut yarn for sale in local shops, markets and grocery stores in both Qaqortog and Nanortalik. Qiviut, the undercoat of the musk ox, is eight times warmer than wool and does not shrink or felt and is a prized find for knitters willing to pay the price for it.

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Tradewind Knits

Visit Tradewind Knits, home of Lucy Neatby and her Tradewind Knits team. For those who know Lucy, you know she thrives on using bright colors, varied textures and smart techniques to create fabulous one-of-a-kind designs. Here you will enjoy meeting Lucy, seeing her work and shopping for great yarn, patterns and instructional materials to really help you kick your knitting up a notch.

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Ilga Leja

Ilga Leja, another popular local designer, will also be showcasing her work and everyone is invited to have a cup of tea while shopping for lovely locally produced yarns and popular favorites such as Kauni at very reasonable prices.

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Fleece Artist/Hand Maiden

Fleece Artist/Hand Maiden will host our group with a yarn dyeing demonstration so everyone can see how their luxurious yarns are created. Watch yarn be created by artists who use a basic recipe combined with their own personal flair to create some of the prettiest and most sought after yarn in the knitting world.

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HOLLAND AMERICA LINE

ms Rotterdam

This is always a favorite amongst seasoned Holland America travelers. As the sixth ship to bear the name, the ms Rotterdam is Holland America's flagship. In the grand tradition of the Rotterdam ships, fascinating Holland America memorabilia can be found throughout the ship, such as specially commissioned works of art ranging from oil paintings, to sculptures, to textile designs and much more.

The ms Rotterdam ensures you the ultimate onboard experience with her graceful combination of classic cruise ship features and state-of-the-art amenities. Fine woods, exquisite art and antiques, large staterooms, and a world-class spa and fitness center are only a few of the features that will make the memories of your Holland America cruise vacation unforgettable.