Aug. 10 updates: Cunard readies for return, NCL feast of missed holiday treats

Queen Elizabeth prepares to sail

The final touches are being made to Cunard's Queen Elizabeth as the line prepares to return to sailing on Friday after a 17 month break.

'We know how much our guests have been looking forward to our first voyage and we hope that they fully immerse themselves in the Cunard on-board experience as they enjoy some of the most stunning coastlines Britain has to offer,' Cunard President Simon Palethorpe said.

Following UK voyages, international service on Queen Elizabeth will begin in October with a cruise from Southampton to Amsterdam followed by a 14-night voyage to the Canary Islands and Madeira in November.

NCL's Celebration Day Buffet

Norwegian Cruise Line treated passengers aboard its first voyage from the US in more than 500 days to a Celebration Day Buffet of favorites from a year's worth of missed holidays and special occasions.

The Celebration Day Buffet featured holiday treats and over-the-top birthday cakes

This took place aboard Norwegian Encore's ongoing Aug. 7 cruise to Alaska. The occasion was an opportunity to make up for missed birthdays, anniversaries, celebrations and more.

The buffet featured holiday treats like Alaskan king crab legs and beef wellington to ring in the New Year, Valentine's Day sweets; barbecue favorites for Fourth of July including ribs, corn on the cob, burgers and fries; Thanksgiving dishes like roast turkey, stuffing, cornbread and pies; and over-the-top birthday cakes.

Nearly 2,600 guests indulged.