The P&O Ferries ship, European Causeway, was left stranded off the coast of Northern Ireland with passengers onboard after leaving Scotland today.
A tugboat and three lifeboats were sent out to help get the ship back to port after it was left around five miles away from Larne Harbour.
A search and rescue helicopter was also said to be in attendance but has since left the scene.
The Causeway departed from Cairnryan around 12pm and was due to arrive at Larne Harbour at 2pm before it suffered a mechanical error.
The vessel is believed to now be back in Larne with pictures showing it in port.
A full inspection of the vessel will take place when it is back in port.
P&O Ferries confirmed there had been an incident on social media.
They tweeted: "Due to a mechanical issue with the Causeway in the Irish Sea, tugs from Larne and Belfast were deployed to guide it back to port.
"Once the ship is back in Port a full inspection will take place."
An update added: "Following a temporary mechanical issue, the Causeway is now continuing to the Port under its own propulsion, with local tugs on standby.
"There are no reported injuries on aboard and all relevant authorities have been informed. Full and independent inspections will follow."
P&O have since tweeted to confirm the 8pm sailing this evening has been cancelled to the ‘technical difficulty’.
Passengers have been booked onto the 7.30pm Stena route, and are advised to arrive at port before 7pm.
Keep up to date with this breaking news story on our live blog: P&O ferry stranded LIVE as hundreds on board in Irish Sea after vessel left Cairnryan
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