A wildcat strike by crew forced the cancellation of two sailings by Britanny Ferries between Roscoff in France and Plymouth.
The vessel Armorique was due to leave the French port yesterday afternoon but was initially delayed while members of its French crew held a protest meeting over proposed changes of working terms and conditions.
The company later said the vessel would not depart until today (Friday), but added alternatives were being sought for the 575 passengers who were due on board on Thursday.
The ship’s return journey this morning has also been cancelled.
Britanny Ferries said some passengers had been advised to take alternative overnight crossings from other ports, including Caen where it runs a route to Portsmouth.
A spokesman told the BBC: “Of course we’re reimbursing them for the petrol they use, and any fare they incur for their crossing.”
He added that the action meant the vessel’s sailing this morning was off.