The annual hunt for the Loch Ness Monster has begun, with this year's search bolstered by an advanced underwater drone set to map the loch's bed.
The Loch Ness Experience's yearly "quest" commenced on Thursday, inviting visitors and enthusiasts to join the search for Nessie.
A "surface watch" on Saturday is expected to draw hundreds of onlookers, scanning the 23-mile loch's waters.
On Thursday and Friday, the expedition went sub-surface as Deep Sea Vision deployed its autonomous vehicle, Micro Millie.
This drone is mapping the hidden depths of Urquhart Bay, chosen for its varied landscape, proximity to Urquhart Castle, and recent sighting reports.
Micro Millie, equipped with advanced sensors and autonomous programming, aims to map the loch bed in unprecedented detail.
Nagina Ishaq, general manager of the Loch Ness Experience, said: “Loch Ness has a unique power to fascinate people, whether they are lifelong believers, curious sceptics or simply captivated by the mystery.
“The fact that 2026 has already brought new sightings shows that the intrigue around Nessie is as strong as ever.
“The quest is all about bringing people closer to that mystery, giving visitors the chance to hear from experts, explore the science and folklore of the loch, and play an active part in the search for themselves.”
Alan McKenna, of the independent Loch Ness Exploration research group, said: “Loch Ness is vast, deep and endlessly fascinating, which is why it continues to draw people into the mystery year after year.
“The quest gives us a chance to look at the loch from different perspectives, from what is happening on the surface to what may be taking place beneath it.
“With new sightings already reported this year, there is a real sense of anticipation around the search.
“For the public, it is a brilliant opportunity to get directly involved and play a meaningful part in the weekend.”
