The ferry's black box data recorder will help the investigation

Two people remain in hospital - one reportedly has a broken nose and neck injuries, the other "rib trauma".

P&O spokesman Chris Laming said the ferry had been sent to an independent shipyard in Dunkirk for an inspection.

"The ship is equipped with a data recorder that will help us determine what went wrong.

"We have a number of factors to consider - navigation, the wind and tide."

The weather had been good, with a slight breeze, Mr Lamming added.

"Clearly we want to get the boat back in service as quickly as possible."

Helplines Passengers: 0800 0850705 Crew: 0800 0850704

Five ambulances and an air ambulance took a total of 10 people to the William Harvey Hospital in Ashford, Kent.

Eight were treated for minor injuries including whiplash, bruising and shock.

The remaining 18 casualties were treated by paramedics on board the ferry.

Those hurt included 18 passengers and 10 crew members.

The accident happened at 1730 BST on Friday as the 28,559-tonne Pride of Provence arrived from Calais carrying 489 passengers and 159 crew.

An emergency number has been set up for anyone concerned about passengers and crew on the ship.

People concerned about passengers can call: 0800 0850705.