NOTE: We’ve reserved a limited number of cabins at discounted group rates for Jen’s Escape & Create Cruise to Alaska. Secure your spot today HERE with a refundable deposit. Don’t wait—these exclusive prices won’t last long!
Get ready for more than just a vacation—this is a journey with purpose, passion, and unforgettable connections! Whether you’re an experienced cruiser or someone who’s never stepped foot on a ship, Jen’s Escape & Create Cruise will completely redefine the way you see travel. Our longtime friend, Jen Van Winkle, is hosting her first group crafting cruise in July 2026 and it is going to be epic! Do you enjoy card making? Love to try new stamps? This is a great opportunity for YOU!
Not only will you embark on a trip of a lifetime to Alaska, you will enjoy the added bonus of a creative escape. Designed for those who love to learn, share, and connect, Jen’s Escape & Create Cruise brings together amazing people from all walks of life to experience something truly special—together. Our creative focus will be handmade cards, but feel free to bring your other craft projects along. And, your non-crafter friends and family can join us for this magical adventure to Alaska as well.
Meet Jen Van Winkle. As your host, she brings 30 years of crafting experience, 25 years of organizing events, an equal number of years teaching paper crafting classes, and an endless array of creativity. Jen is also an experienced traveler. In fact, this will be her fourth trip to Alaska!
We’re partnering with an award-winning cruise line and a newly renovated ship to ensure the highest standards of comfort, safety, and enjoyment. Dream Vacations Travel Advisors Ann and Steve Teget will take care of all the planning and booking details so all you have to do is pack your bag. You can read their travel blog called Postcard Jar HERE.
Enjoy engaging classes taught by talented instructors while surrounded by breathtaking ocean views. Whether you’re a lifelong crafter or just starting out, you’ll be inspired every single day. Enjoy the well-prepped Make-N-Takes, workshops, and product demos throughout the week.
While you’re enjoying your Create time, your friends or family can take advantage of the ship’s wide array of activities: live music, wine tastings, fitness classes, spa treatments, production shows, kids clubs, and more! There’s truly something for everyone on board. (You will also have plenty of time to enjoy these same amenities!)
Whether you’re diving into a new hobby or lounging by the indoor pool with your favorite book, there’s always the perfect balance of activity and downtime. No required attendance to any event. Lots of opportunities to create, but you are ultimately in charge of your own agenda. After all, it’s your vacation.
Included with the purchase of your adventure is the option to join in on the crafting experiences. We will have 15 Make-N-Takes for you to complete throughout the week. Reserved, designated community crafting space with Escape & Create helpers will be available for questions and problem solving. In addition, you will have the option to attend two workshops to complete a project with guided instruction. Another exciting aspect of this cruise is the opportunity to try out some new products during the product demo sessions. You may attend as much as or as little of the Create time as you’d like. Plus, there are plenty of locations throughout the ship for you to create on your own. Most materials will be provided for crafting except a short list of common crafting tools.
We will communicate more specifics, the Create schedule, opportunities, workshops, group excursion options, and other such details as we finalize this amazing adventure. If you have additional questions about the Create aspect of the cruise, contact Jen by email at jlvw513@gmail.com.
Secure your spot(s) HERE or through the booking interest form below to snag our exclusive group pricing and perks and join us for special group events—don’t miss out! Jen’s 7-night Escape & Create Cruise to Alaska will be July 26 to Aug. 2, 2026.
The trailblazing lead ship of Celebrity Cruises’ acclaimed Solstice-class fleet, the Solstice has been redefining luxury cruising since her 2008 debut. This elegant ship accommodates up to 2,850 passengers —while her 1,000 dedicated crew members deliver a 3:1 passenger-to-staff ratio that ensures personalized, top-tier service praised by travelers worldwide.
In March 2026, Celebrity will unveil a $250 million “Solstice Series” modernization program kicking off with Solstice herself, introducing eight fresh experiences—including four brand-new venues like the rustic Italian Trattoria Rossa, a new steakhouse, and a serene half-acre Sunset Park oasis atop the ship for breathtaking panoramic vistas. All staterooms will also be refreshed with modern touches.
Note: Prices subject to change until confirmed with full deposit. For Retreat (suite), solo, accessible, inside cabins, or additional guest pricing, email Steve Teget for a quote.
The Aqua Class Balcony Cabin on the Celebrity Solstice is a wellness-focused stateroom on Deck 11, featuring a private veranda, eXhale® bedding, a private bathroom with a massaging showerhead, and premium amenities like a pillow menu. Aqua Class guests also receive access to the exclusive Blu restaurant for complimentary dining, unlimited access to the Persian Garden thermal suite, and a dedicated Personal Spa Concierge.
Dinner: Blu restaurant (anytime) or Opus Main Dining Room (anytime)
The Concierge Balcony Cabin on the Celebrity Solstice offers more than a standard balcony stateroom, providing a private balcony and enhanced amenities such as daily canapés, upgraded bathrobes and slippers, binoculars, and a pillow menu. Guests also receive dedicated concierge service, priority reservations, and a special Welcome Aboard Lunch in the main dining room.
Dinner: Main Dining Room (anytime)
Check out THIS BLOG POST we wrote to help you decide. We think it’s the perfect fit for anyone who loves great company, incredible destinations, and good value! And, as a participant in Jen’s Escape & Create Cruise, you can do as much or as little with others from the group as you’d like. As we said, it’s YOUR vacation.
We’ve secured a limited number of cabins at exclusive group rates, but they won’t last long! This is your chance to join Jen on what could well be the best cruise you’ve ever taken—filled with crafting, learning, laughter, discovery, and the joy of traveling with friends old and new. A refundable deposit locks in your spot, so don’t wait—begin your booking today HERE! (Reminder: You MUST book through us using THIS LINK to be part of our group and enjoy the perks.)
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to explore Alaska with Jen and other stampers and card makers. We can’t wait to see you on board!
Q: How do I sign up?
A: It’s easy! Just complete this JEN’S ESCAPE & CREATE INTEREST FORM and we’ll be in touch. Important: You MUST BOOK ONLY through this link or by contacting Dream Vacations Travel Advisors Steve and Ann Teget (and not directly through the cruise line or another agent) to be included in Jen’s Escape & Create Cruise pricing, sessions, & activities.
Q: Is there a secure online payment option?
A: Yes. You can make a secure payment anytime you’d like with Dream Vacations’ secure payment form. We’ll send you the link when you book. Or, just call Steve and Ann at 402.575.9624 and make a payment over the phone.
Q: Is this a private charter cruise? A: No. It is an “everybody – all are welcome” cruise. We just reserved a block of rooms at discounted pricing for Jen’s Escape & Create Cruise and anyone else who would like to join us.
Q: What if I’ve never cruised before?
A: That’s no problem at all. In fact, that’s what we (Ann and Steve) are here for. Specifically, we will keep you up to date with emails, a Facebook group, and even group Zoom calls before our cruise to help guide you and answer all of your questions and concerns. And if you still have questions, you can always just give us a call at 402.575.9624. In addition, we’re planning to be on board the Celebrity Solstice cruise ship in case you have questions during the sailing.
Q: Will there be Jen’s Escape & Create group events?
A: Yes, there will be events exclusive to our group. We’ll have special meet-up times, crafting sessions, and maybe even a group shore excursion. In addition, those from our group who are in the same cabin categories may dine together, if desired.
Q: Are drinks included?
A: The Classic Drink Package is included in your cruise fare. It includes soft drinks, beers, spirits, cocktails, liqueurs, frozen drinks, wines by the glass, specialty coffee, tea, and generic bottled water up to $12 per serving. If you’d like a drink that exceeds the $12 limit, you just pay the difference, or you can upgrade to the Premium Drink Package for an additional fee. There is no daily limit on the number of beverages you can order.
Q: Is Wifi included?
A: Yes. Basic Wifi (good for checking emails) is included in the price for each person. You may also upgrade to the Premium Wifi for an additional cost.
Q: Do I need a passport?
A: Yes. The cruise departs from Vancouver, Canada, so you’ll need a passport to travel there. In addition, every passenger needs a passport to board the ship. Please note your passport must not expire before February of 2027.
Finally, if you have any questions about Jen’s Escape & Create Cruise, please don’t hesitate to let us know. You can email us at a.teget@dreamvacations.com (Ann), s.teget@dreamvacations.com (Steve) or give us a call at 402.575.9624.
