Passengers Left Horrified After ‘Adult Film’ is Accidentally Shown in Ferry Lounges

A ferry company is apologizing after an adult film accidentally played in its passenger lounges, causing chaos onboard.

DFDS confirmed the “unfortunate incident” occurred on October 26 during a crossing from Dieppe, France, to Newhaven, England. Passengers had been watching the Formula One Grand Prix while the ferry was delayed, but once the race ended, the crew didn’t realize that the next program on the screen was adult content.

“During the delay, a group of passengers asked to watch the F1 Grand Prix in the lounge. Unfortunately, the crew were unaware that an adult film was scheduled to play afterward,” DFDS said in a statement obtained by PEOPLE. “Once alerted by a passenger, the channel was quickly changed. That station has now been removed from the ship to ensure this does not happen again.”

The company expressed regret for the disruption, especially for families onboard. “We are very sorry for the understandable upset and anger caused to those who viewed this content,” the statement read.

The delay that prompted passengers to watch the race was caused by a technical issue with the ship. DFDS said, “Our crew worked hard to resolve the situation as quickly as possible, but we understand that the extended waiting time and disruption to travel plans caused frustration. Passengers are being contacted and offered appropriate compensation.”

One passenger told local newspaper The Argus that the incident led to chaos in the lounge. Kids were reportedly “screaming” while parents tried to explain what was happening. “There were parents explaining to their children that not all adults do that. It was a bit mad,” she said. “People were really disgruntled.”

The ferry company has vowed to prevent such incidents in the future, ensuring passengers can enjoy their onboard entertainment without surprises.