Tag: Loch Ness Centre

NASA v Nessie: The Loch Ness Centre calls on the pioneers of exploration in new search for Nessie

  • The Loch Ness Centre is asking for scientists, universities and even NASA to provide their expertise in a renewed search for the famous monster  
  • Last year, one of the biggest searches of Loch Ness concluded with a hydrophone capturing loud underwater noises and several potential sightings
  • The search takes place on the 90th anniversary of the first organised surface watch of Loch Ness, Sir Edward Mountain’s expedition with the ‘Watchers of the Monster’

Last year, the newly revamped Loch Ness Centre partnered with Loch Ness Exploration (LNE), an independent and voluntary research team, alongside hundreds of in-person and virtual volunteers to search the famous waters of Loch Ness. 

With numerous potential sightings and strange noises heard from the depths of Loch Ness, The Loch Ness Centre is returning with an even bigger search as it continues its goal of uncovering the loch’s mysteries. 

As well as looking for budding monster hunters to be involved in the search, taking place Thursday 30th May to Sunday 2nd June, this year organisers are asking for experts to help. This includesscientists and universities, as well as pioneers of exploration NASA to provide equipment and expertise in the search.

With new equipment from experts the Loch Ness Centre is hoping science can help uncover the mysteries of the Loch and the unexplainable sightings since the legend of Nessie began 90 years ago. 

This year marks the 90th anniversary since the first organised search for Nessie, when Sir Edward Mountain took a team of twenty and became the ‘Watchers of the Monster’. Since then there have been over 1,156 sightings of the beast on the Official Loch Ness Monster Sightings Register.

As part of this year’s quest, The Loch Ness Centre and LNE are looking for volunteers to become modern day ‘Watchers of the Monster’ and take part in a giant surface watch of the Loch, keeping an eye out for breaks in the water. Volunteers will be briefed on what to look out for and how to record findings.

Over the 4 days, as well as the search, there will be a number of other activities taking place. This includes a special screening of Loch Ness: They Created a Monster, the new documentary explores the monster-hunting frenzy at Loch Ness in the 1970s and 80s with a special Q&A with the director John MaClaverty.

Other events include a live debate with Alan McKenna from Loch Ness Exploration, Roland Watson, a renowned Loch Ness writer, and eyewitness Richard White, as they tell gripping stories, discuss ongoing research, and dissect eyewitness accounts. All while debating the existence of the elusive monster.

For those wanting to get out on the water as part of the huge search, there is also the chance to explore the depths of the world-famous loch with Deepscan Captain, Alistair Matheson, the Skipper for the Loch Ness Project.

Monster hunters have the chance to join Alistair and renowned Nessie researcher Alan McKenna from Loch Ness Exploration for an extended excursion. They will experience the thrill of utilising a 60-foot hydrophone to listen for mysterious sounds echoing from the depths of the loch.

The Loch Ness Centre, which was reopened last year following a huge renovation, is located at the old Drumnadrochit Hotel, where, 90 years ago, hotel manageress Mrs Aldie Mackay reported seeing a ‘water beast’ in Loch Ness – sparking our modern day interest in the phenomenon.

Continuum Attractions, which operates award-winning attractions all over the UK, invested £1.5m in creating a modern immersive experience with interactive elements. Making use of a wealth of engaging technology to create an immersive multimedia experience, the reimagined centre offers a memorable experience to visitors of all ages. 

Monster hunters unable to attend the search can still get involved in the hunt for the truth, through the Visit Inverness Loch Ness website. Several cameras have been set up all over the loch for people around all over the world to watch out for the loch’s most famous inhabitant, as well as other local wildlife, 365 days a year. When viewing the live cameras, watchers can capture a screenshot directly as well as zoom in to get a better look, and are being asked to share any findings. 

Paul Nixon, General Manager of the Loch Ness Centre, said: “Last year we captured the world’s attention with one of the biggest ever searches for Nessie, with participants joining us from America, Canada, France, Italy, Japan and more.

“With unexplained noises heard, alongside possible sightings, this year we are determined to find out more about the elusive Loch Ness Monster.

“As well as asking for the help of budding monster hunters to help us on our quest, we are asking for the help of experts. We’re excited to make this search the biggest ever, as we look for new equipment to help us uncover the loch’s biggest mysteries.”

Get involved in The Quest and join us on our search for answers, visit: 

lochness.com/the-quest

To book your trip to The Loch Ness Centre or a cruise tour, please visit: 

lochness.com. 

Explorers wanted to take part in Wildlife Watch of Loch Ness


Loch Ness Centre calling for eager explorers to join 8-month search

Last summer, The Loch Ness Centre hosted one of the largest ever hunts for Nessie. Over the course of the weekend, thousands of people took part, searching for the elusive creature that has captured the world’s imagination. Results from the weekend included an influx of mysterious sightings and unexplained noises, furthering the belief that something is out there waiting to be discovered. 

This Spring, The Loch Ness Centre is embarking on another exhilarating journey as they delve into the mysteries in and around the famous loch. From March 29th to November 3rd, the Centre will be conducting research to map and photograph the vibrant wildlife thriving around the Scottish waters. 

The Loch Ness Centre is asking both locals and visitors to join the search in attempt to uncover the secrets of Loch Ness and document the magnificent deer, graceful salmon, enigmatic eels, or perhaps even the legendary monster.

With the new season on the horizon, The Loch Ness Centre is gearing up to welcome a flurry of new visitors eager to learn more about the iconic loch and its history.

Spring is synonymous with new life and budding nature, the perfect time for The Loch Ness Centre to launch its Wildlife Watch and encourage people, from near and far, to look out for the beauty and abundance of wildlife in and around the Loch. 

The Scottish Highlands is home to a variety of amazing wildlife and eager eyes may witness playful otters, majestic buzzards and kites, whimsical red squirrels, and the awe-inspiring flights of eagles and ospreys.

Participants are being asked to report on what they see and when, alongside further details such as the weather conditions and the loch’s surface water condition, with all findings being logged for the final report in November. Where possible watchers are being asked to take a photo of any findings.

The warmer weather also facilitates the return of the Deepscan Cruises, giving visitors the opportunity to climb onboard with Captain Alistair Matheson, to search the water right from the source. This one-of-a-kind, intimate experience takes guests on a journey across the incredible body of water, to witness the breath-taking beauty of Urquhart Castle and search the depths of the loch using world-class sonar equipment on board.

Paul Nixon, General Manager of the Loch Ness Centre, said: “We’re so excited to be launching our Wildlife Watch.

“When talking about Loch Ness we instantly think of Nessie, yet there are so many other amazing creatures right on our doorstep here in Loch Ness. We encourage everybody to take part in spotting some of Scotland’s amazing wildlife and who knows what else, or who else, you might see along the way!

“We can’t wait to see what people find and document, to give us a better understanding of what we share this amazing place with.”

Anyone can join the adventure and be part of the Wildlife Watch, whether that’s from onboard the Deepscan or watching from the loch shores.

To take part, wildlife watchers can fill in the form and attach your image or video:  https://lochness.com/wildlife-watch/

For more information on The Loch Ness Centre and to make a booking, please visit: https://lochness.com 

Nessie Hunt: the jury’s oot!

Biggest search for Nessie in 50 years concludes with hydrophone capturing loud underwater noises and several potential sightings

Hundreds of volunteers and media participated in the largest surface area search of Loch Ness in 50 years this weekend, with numerous potential sightings and strange noises heard from the depths of Loch Ness.

Wild weather on Saturday (nicknamed ‘Nessie’s revenge’) did not put off hardy hunters who flocked along both sides of the 23-mile long loch to volunteer in the surface watch, alongside hundreds who participated online via webcams.

Highlights from the weekend included:

  • Four mysterious and previously unheard loud noises from the depths of the loch
  • Possible video footage of the monster with mysterious ‘humps’ filmed on the loch moving, before disappearing
  • An online volunteer captured a giant shadow just under the surface, moving, dipping out of sight, then returning and swimming across again
  • Multiple submissions of potential sightings via sighting form submissions including streaks in the water

Nessie is clearly still capturing people’s imagination and interest as much today as it did 90 years ago.

The mysterious monster has become so popular worldwide that Continuum Attractions (which runs award winning visitor attractions across the UK) has recently invested into the new Loch Ness Centre, giving visitors and enthusiasts the chance to take a tour and learn more about the history, view real artefacts, and see the scientific evidence. At the end of the experience guests are given the chance to debate the existence of Nessie.

Christie McLeod, who travelled to take part from Toronto, Canada, said: “I’ve been hunting the monster for nine years, but this is my first official hunt.

“I’ve previously hired my own boat, so this is great as it’s organised by Loch Ness Exploration with support from the Loch Ness Centre. I’ve heard lots of stories from the locals, which all contradict each other.

“There are two types of people in the world, Nessie believers and non-believers, and I’m not interested in the latter. I have a spiritual connection to the Loch Ness monster and think there is a portal to another dimension in the loch.”

Paul Nixon, General Manager of the Loch Ness Centre, said, “This excitement this weekend has proven that the ongoing hunt for the Loch Ness Monster is still very much alive and continues to draw and attract a global audience, from America, Canada, France, Italy, Japan and more.

“We all want the same thing, to see and find out what the Loch Ness monster is. We’ve been delighted to welcome so many people into the Loch Ness Centre for visitor centre tours and Deepscan boat trips across the weekend.” 

Alan McKenna, of Loch Ness Exploration, said: “I’d like to thank all the volunteers who have supported us over the weekend, both in person and online.

“It’s been an exceptional weekend, with lots of potential sightings and huge interest from across the globe. We know the monster is elusive, so it is not surprising we don’t have a concrete sighting, but we’ve all had lots of fun and proven the mystery lives on. As for what happens next, watch this space…!”

To book your trip to The Loch Ness Centre or a cruise tour, please visit: lochness.com.

Nessie story resurfaces after 90 years

£1.5 million investment reimagines the Loch Ness story with brand new immersive experience for new generation 

The wait is almost over for global tourists to the Highlands and Monster spotters, as the newly imagined Loch Ness Centre in Drumnadrochit near Inverness will officially open its doors on Saturday 10th June.

The Loch Ness Centre, located at one of Scotland’s most famous tourist destinations, is nearing completion following a major refurbishment by Continuum Attractions, following its take over earlier this year. £1.5m has been invested in a full upgrade to enhance the visitor experience, allowing people to explore the legend and myths of Loch Ness through immersive tours and also via trips aboard the attraction’s famous research vessel, Deepscan.

Guests will become part of the Centre’s ongoing Quest with regular updates on all the latest news, developments, and Nessie sightings. The attraction is investing in support for Loch Ness Exploration teams to help ensure the search continues for a new generation.

This year marks the 90th anniversary of the famous sighting of Nessie, by Aldie Mackay, in 1933 which catapulted Scotland, Loch Ness, and its monster phenomenon into hearts and minds across the world.

The ‘Monster Spotted’ headline went global, launching Loch Ness centre stage into worlds media and attracting visits from around the world. A media frenzy ensued, just one real story celebrated at the new Loch Ness Centre.

The centre’s social channels have received numerous messages from excited fans, ranging from as far as the United States to Kent, one follower saying ‘Do you have an opening date yet? I’m super excited to see the new centre’.

Visitors will soon have the opportunity to try the new experience, which is located at the epicentre of legendary tales and activity – the old Drumnadrochit Hotel, the home of former Manageress Aldie Mackay.

The experience features seven stories told in a variety of exciting ways: they celebrate This Majestic Place, Scottish Myths and Legends and the scientific search for the Truth;  just three areas of the attraction which features real artefacts and peoples’ witness statements. 

The new one-hour experience offers guests the chance to immerse themselves in the story of the legend and explore the real stories of Loch Ness.

Guests will walk through 500 million years of history to explore the myths and examine the scientific research surrounding the monster. Guests can hear real people’s stories, discover artefacts, and hear scientific debate on the existence of Nessie, a phenomenon boasting over 1,000 eyewitness accounts and recorded sightings, alongside lots of unexplained evidence.

Voyage seekers will also have the extraordinary chance to explore the depths of the world’s most famous Loch with Deepscan Captain, Alistair Matheson, the Skipper for the Loch Ness Project. Guests can book a trip on board the vessel, named after the famous expedition carried out on the Loch in 1987. 

The one-of-a-kind cruise takes up to 12 guests on a very special journey witnessing the breath-taking beauty of Urquhart Castle and searching the depths of the Loch using specialist sonar equipment on board, sailing across the magnificent water that intrigues visitors just as much today, as it did back when Aldie Mackay first spotted the ‘beast’ 90 years ago. It’s strongly recommended to book in advance to secure your spot with Skipper and increase your chance of spotting Nessie the National treasure.

Juliana Delaney, Chief Executive of Continuum, said: “We are thrilled to finally announce our opening date The Loch Ness Centre, it’s been a highly anticipated date! From 10th June we look forward to welcoming guests from across the UK and the globe, excited to join us for this must visit experience when they arrive in the Highlands.

“We now present the story of this global phenomenon in a modern and engaging way. We appreciate we are only guardians of this legend as many Nessie enthusiasts are truly passionate about this place and its history.

“We wanted to involve them and the community to get it right for the locals and tourists alike. At Continuum, we are passionate about finding great stories in great locations – and this really is Scotland’s best story.”

To guarantee entry on the date and time of your choice, it is strongly recommended to pre-book tickets online in advance, where guests can also save up to 10%.

Adult tickets start from £13.95 and Deepscan Cruises tickets start from £19.00.

To book your trip to The Loch Ness Centre or a cruise tour, please visit: 

https://bit.ly/lochnesscentre_opening

Loch Ness Centre on the hunt for Nessie’s number one fan

Loch Ness Centre announces recruitment drive including a special role for Nessie’s number one fan following £1.5 million investment 

It’s a legend that has intrigued and enthralled for centuries. Now, aspiring Nessie-hunters will be thrilled to learn that the Loch Ness Centre is recruiting for staff in advance of its imminent re-opening. The Centre is also looking for Nessie’s number one fan to preview the upgraded attraction before opening to the public. 

For one of Scotland’s most famous tourist destinations, the new recruitment drive follows the refurbishment of the centre after Continuum Attractions took over earlier this year, investing £1.5m on upgrades to enhance the visitor experience of exploring the legend and myths of Loch Ness.

As part of its recruitment plan, the centre is on the hunt for Nessie’s number one fan to fulfil a special role. Ahead of opening the lucky candidate will be the first to try and test the unique one-hour tour.

The newly upgraded tour will offer a truly immersive experience allowing guests to become part of the story and delve deeper into the real stories of Loch Ness.

During the tour guests will go through seven rooms to explore the real story of one of the world’s most famous monsters, uncover ancient myths and legends, take a journey through the majestic Highlands and learn about the scientific research. 

To facilitate the day-to-day running of the centre, it is looking to hire two Operations Duty Managers, one fixed-term and the other permanent. Aimed at individuals with a passion for the tourism industry and an enthusiasm for providing exemplary customer service, the roles focus particularly on candidates’ leadership skills, flair for communicating with customers and visitors, and willingness to adapt and work well under pressure. 

Additionally, the Centre is on the hunt for an Inverness-based Marketing Manager. As the public face of the attraction, candidates will need to be creative and experienced marketing professionals with the willingness to network and build strong relationships with key stakeholders in the region. Driving growth and revenue will be a key objective, so enthusiasm for the brand and knowledge of what makes visitors tick are also crucial qualities in interested applicants. 

All the roles will offer successful applicants a generous salary and holiday allowance, health plan and pension scheme, along with additional perks such as discounts on visitor attractions and other leisure activities. 

Paul Nixon at Loch Ness Centre said: “Nessie’s story is one that lives in hearts and minds all over the world. As we prepare to reopen the Loch Ness Centre following extensive refurbishments, we’re looking for talented, enthusiastic people to join us in our passion and mission to share Nessie’s story even more widely.

“In exchange, the right candidates will receive a generous salary and benefits package along with the unique opportunity to engage with audiences from around the world and share Scotland’s legendary history with them”. 

Interested candidates can find further information at:

https://www.continuumattractions.com/join-the-team/jobs/

If you believe you’re Nessie’s number fan, you can be in with a chance of securing an exclusive preview of the new Loch Ness Centre tour by submitting a short video of no longer than two minutes explaining why you are the best person for the job. To apply, submit your entry to marketing@continuumattraction.com