Travellers were told that they could not board the boat as it was already full, and now have to wait until Monday to make their way back to Jersey.
Officers were called to help calm the chaos in Poole as people were told the news.
It came after the boat’s departure was delayed due to a group of passengers preventing other travellers from boarding the ship.
Capt Fran Collins – Executive Director Operations said: ‘Whilst we understand and share customers’ enormous frustration at the situation, it was disappointing that some of them took action in this way, thereby causing further inconvenience and delay.
‘We are very grateful to Dorset Police for their help. We will obviously be thoroughly investigating how the error occurred to ensure it is not repeated in future.’
