The Department of the Marine has said its officials are likely to carry out another inspection of the Irish Ferries vessel, the Normandy, at Rosslare Europort tomorrow.
The vessel was detained there last night after the Department's inspectors found several deficiencies in the ship's operations, including fire-fighting arrangements and crew training.
Irish Ferries said the problem arose when an exhaust system was being worked on.
Around 700 passengers, many of whom were travelling home for Christmas, have had their travel plans disrupted.
Alternative arrangements have been made for passengers travelling to France, but those coming home may have a longer delay.
Last night's crossing to Cherbourg was to have been the last before the annual Christmas break. Sailings are scheduled to resume on 27 December.
The Normandy was re-flagged to the Bahamas a year ago and its crew are Baltic, eastern European and British.
