'Canada's beloved' Theodore Too tugboat sinking in St. Catharines, Ont.

Theodore Too, the life-sized tugboat replica of a beloved TV character, is on "temporary leave" after it began to sink in St. Catharines, Ont. 

By Wednesday morning, it had remained partially submerged at the Port Weller Dry Docks Shipyard on Lake Ontario.

"At this time, the cause of this unfortunate incident remains unclear," Blair McKeil, Theodore Too's owner and CEO of Breakwater Financial, said in a statement.

McKeil said the company is committed to executing a "safe and successful refloat" of Theodore Too while keeping people informed.

"Rest assured, measures have been taken to mitigate any potential environmental impact," he said.

According to the statement, Theodore Too is "gently resting" in the mud next to a deck at the shipyard. 

Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston said on social media Theodore is a "true" icon of the province and shared words of encouragement for the boat's recovery.

"It's sad to see our old friend in such a damaged state. I'm happy to read the owner is committed to repairing Theodore and a safe and successful refloat," he said in the post on X.

"Stay strong, Theodore!"

Theodore Tugboat was a children's television show that aired on CBC from 1993 to 2001. The 65-foot replica boat was built in Dayspring, N.S., in 2000. His official birthday is May 5.

Theodore Too left its province of origin in 2021 after being sold to McKeil to promote marine careers and raise awareness for the conservation of water resources.

According to the statement, "Canada's beloved" tugboat has visited over 20 ports along the St. Lawrence River, Lake Ontario and in the U.S., "bringing joy and happiness to local communities."

The boat was also briefly available to rent for one-night stays through Airbnb in 2022 when it was docked in Hamilton.

On the boat's social media account on Wednesday, Theodore said he had a "mishap yesterday and took on some water."

He said the team is working to have him in "ship shape" in time for the holidays.

"At this time of year, when so many of my friends across the country are struggling, I want you to know how much I love you all and I wish you a heartfelt happy, healthy and toot-ally magical holiday," read Theodore's post on Facebook.