Erik the Red retires at Maritime Museum of the Atlantic party

Dozens packed the chart room ofCSS Acadia yesterday for the retirement party of the ship's furriest employee.

Erik The Red was the ship's rodent control officer for more than 15 years.

The elderly orange tabby slept through most of his party, occasionally opening an eye when petted.

Over the past few weeks, museum staff have been collecting memories of Erik on a hotline and through photographs.

The tabby cat was often seen wandering around the shops and restaurants on the waterfront. Some offered him sweaters in the winter, while museum staff are convinced others puffed Erik up with treats.

He's survived three cat-nappings and 16 winters on board CSS Acadia.

Erik is now at least 18 years old, and starting to show his age. His co-workers decided it was time to give their peer an extravagant send off.

In retirement, Erik will be moving inland, to share a home in Halifax's north end with his co-worker Read.

The Acadia, a Canadian Scientific Ship, was retired in 1969 after 56 years of service.