Farewell to Nova Scotia: Theodore Tugboat replica leaves for new Ontario home

Theodore, the beloved TV tugboat, left Halifax Thursday morning, bound for a new Ontario home.

Theodore Too, the 20-metre replica of the children's TV character, was sold earlier this year to a new owner who intends to use the smiling vessel to promote the marine industry and responsible marinestewardship.

Theodore leftHalifax Harbour, its home for the past 21 years, at 9 a.m.AT., surrounded by a flotilla of other boats.

The tugboat's new home will be the Port of Hamilton. Upon arrival, its engine will be converted tobiodiesel a symbol of Theodore's future as a "sustainability champion," according tonew owner Blair McKeil.

McKeil said in a news release he's arranged for the advocacy group Swim Drink Fish to use Theodore in educating Canadians aboutwater conservation and restoration of the Great Lakes.

McKeil said he's also planning to use Theodore to advocate for employment in Canada's marine and shipbuilding industries.

WATCH | Theodore Too leaves Halifax for new home in Ontario: