A freighter impounded at New Ross, Co Wexford, since May is to be auctioned this Wednesday.
The Belize registered MV Lillianwas detained over two months ago after it was found to be unseaworthy. Port officials found structural defects and non-compliance with safety regulations.
The sale was ordered by the High Court after an application by the International Transport Federation (ITF), the union representing the crew, who claimed not to have received wages for several months.
The ship was described as "a floating sweatshop" by Siptu, an affiliate of the ITF.
Federation inspector Ken Fleming said he was now satisfied that the crew would be paid their wages. The men are due $96,000 (€70,347) in arrears, which will be recovered by the sale of the vessel next week.
The crew of eight Russian sailors lived on the ship for the best part of three months. They finally returned home last Wednesday.
Following an inspection, Mr Fleming said the 30-year-old vessel had serious structural defects and that sea water had badly corroded its steel cargo.
The auction will take place at the Brandon House Hotel, New Ross, next Wednesday.