The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word GANGWAYS
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
G
A
N
G
W
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S
More clues leading to the result GANGWAYS
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Passages" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case passages = gangways.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does GANGWAYS mean?
GANGWAYS noun- A passageway through which to enter or leave, such as one between seating areas in an auditorium, or between two buildings.
- An articulating bridge or ramp, such as from land to a dock or a ship.
- A temporary passageway, such as one made of planks.
- (obsolete outside dialectal) A clear path through a crowd or a passageway with people.
- An aisle.
- A passage along either side of a ship's upper deck.
- A passage through the side of a ship or an opening in the railing through which the ship may be boarded.
- (agricultural) An earthen and plank ramp leading from the stable yard into the upper storey or mow of a dairy barn.
- (Chicago) The narrow space between two buildings or houses, used to access the backyard/alleyway from the front.
- A passageway through a passenger car
- To serve as, furnish with, or conduct oneself as though proceeding on a gangway.