An annual hunt for the Loch Ness monster has kicked off, with the search being aided by an underwater drone which will map the bed of the loch.
The Loch Ness Experience's yearly "quest" began on Thursday, inviting visitors and enthusiasts to take part in the search for Nessie.
On Saturday, a "surface watch" is expected to involve hundreds of onlookers scanning the water around the 37km loch.
On Thursday and Friday, the search delved below the surface as a company called Deep Sea Vision deployed its autonomous underwater vehicle Micro Millie to map the hidden depths of Urquhart Bay.
This area was chosen due to its varied underwater landscape, its proximity to Urquhart Castle and reputation as a recent hotspot for reported sightings of the cryptid.
Micro Millie uses its advanced sensors and autonomous programming to map the bed of the loch in unprecedented detail.
#OnThisDay 1968: Volunteers from The Loch Ness Investigation Bureau were hoping to capture on film the elusive Nessie. Some members had already experienced sightings, and with six mobile camera vans and regular practise drills, the team took their work very seriously. pic.twitter.com/z8dybiyioi
— BBC Archive (@BBCArchive) May 29, 2026
"Loch Ness has a unique power to fascinate people, whether they are lifelong believers, curious sceptics or simply captivated by the mystery," Nagina Ishaq, general manager of the Loch Ness Experience, said.
"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 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".
