I’m Alan McKenna, the leader of Loch Ness Exploration (LNE), an independent, volunteer-driven research group based here in Scotland. As summer settles over the Highlands, we’re embracing ourselves for an exciting season of discovery at Loch Ness. With fresh sightings, thrilling research moments, and some incredible events ahead, there’s never been a better time to get involved.
This year our Quest Weekend ran from Thursday 22nd to Sunday 25th May 2025 – and without a doubt, it was our best yet! Over four action-packed days, The Loch Ness Centre delivered an incredible range of events and activities for all ages to enjoy.
From storytelling inspired by ancient Scottish folklore, live demonstrations from the Loch Ness RNLI Lifeboat Station, and engaging family activities, to a live debate featuring Gordon Menzies, Roland Watson, and myself – it was a truly unforgettable experience for everyone involved.
This year, The Loch Ness Centre and Loch Ness Exploration (LNE) teamed up with Little Loch Broom Marine Life (LLBML), a community science group established in 2019.
LLBML conducts regular seashore surveys in Ullapool, studying its diverse marine life. For Quest Weekend, they brought along their advanced Chasing M2 ROV (Remote Operated Vehicle) to Loch Ness.
With it, they captured remarkable footage of Pike hunting beneath the surface of Loch Ness – possibly the first time this behaviour has ever been filmed! For me, though, the standout discovery was locating the ruins of the original Temple Pier in Urquhart Bay. This historically significant pier was used as the launch site for John Cobb’s 1952 water speed record attempt, which sadly ended in tragedy.
Surface Watch & An Unsettling Night Observation
We ran both daytime and night-time surface watches, welcoming familiar faces and new members of LNE to the team.
While the daytime watches didn’t record anything unusual, our night observation near Urquhart Castle delivered a truly chilling moment.
Dave Hastings and I were stationed on a rocky beach, observing calm waters, when suddenly a large disturbance appeared close to the shore, yet still in deep water. A fast-moving wave surged towards us with such force that we had to step back.
Moments later, it happened again – this time from a different direction. There were no boats and no wind, and while it could have been a large fish or a seal, its speed and size left us speechless.
Join us for three exciting events this autumn as we continue the research and exploration!
Step aboard Deepscan, our working research vessel, for a one-hour trip like no other!
Use our brand-new hydrophone to listen for mysterious underwater sounds as I share insights from years of Loch Ness research and discuss our continuing search for the elusive creature.
Surface Watch & Night Observation (Free)
Saturday 30th August 2025
Meet at 10am outside The Loch Ness Centre.
Take part in a daytime surface watch, followed by a thrilling night observation at Urquhart Castle. Be part of real research and help us monitor the loch for unusual activity.
As we dive into another exciting year of exploration, we’re more eager than ever to continue uncovering the secrets of Loch Ness. From ground-breaking research and new collaborations to fascinating sightings and opportunities to get involved, there’s so much to look forward to in the coming months.
Thanks for reading, and we hope you’ll stay tuned for more updates, discoveries, and adventures!
