Beloved Canadian tugboat 'Theodore Too' partially sinks

Theodore TOO, the life-size replica of Theodore Tugboat, has partially sunk in a St. Catharines port.

The boat's owner, Blair McKeil, says Theodore took on water while docked at the Ontario Shipyard in Port Weller on Tuesday.

"At this time, the cause of this unfortunate incident remains unclear," McKeil said in a statement. "We are committed to executing a safe and successful refloat of our beloved Theodore TOO."

McKeil also said measures have been taken to mitigate any potential environmental impact.

A separate statement on the ship's official social media accounts reads in part, "I am resting safely on my belly in the mud and [a team of experts] are working super hard to have me ship shape in time for the holidays."

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Theodore Tugboat (@therealtheodoretugboat)

The boat is modelled after the popular CBC children's show "Theodore Tugboat" and moved to Hamilton in 2021 after spending 21 years in Halifax Harbour in Nova Scotia.

Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston reacted to the boat's partial sinking on Wednesday writing, "Theodore is a true Nova Scotia icon. It’s sad to see our old friend in such a damaged state. Stay strong, Theodore!"

Since arriving in Ontario, Theodore TOO has visited more than 20 ports along the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario to promote the marine industry and water conservation.

It even served as an Airbnb for two days in 2022.