As we bid farewell to 2023, we can’t help but marvel at the extraordinary journey The Loch Ness Centre has undertaken throughout the year. Here’s a glimpse into the captivating moments that defined our year:
In a momentous announcement, Continuum Attractions, a leading UK visitor attraction group, revealed its takeover of The Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition. With a commendable investment of £1.5 million into refurbishment.
Even before The Loch Ness Centre’s official reopening, Deepscan cruises returned, offering enthusiasts a prelude to the adventures awaiting them.
On Saturday, June 10th, the highly anticipated reopening of The Loch Ness Centre unfolded. Media from across the world gathered at the Centre. This weekend allowed global tourists and dedicated Monster spotters to explore the revamped experience. Visitors could now embark on immersive tours and voyages aboard the renowned research vessel, Deepscan.
IN August we held our inaugural Quest Weekend, run in partnership with Alan McKenna from Loch Ness Exploration (LNE). The month leading up to The Quest saw a media frenzy, with everyone from BBC to ITV, and broadcasters as far as Japan, USA, and Australia converging at The Loch Ness Centre, eagerly awaiting Nessie’s appearance.
Over the weekend, volunteers armed with determination and new underwater hydrophone technology uncovered intriguing findings, from mysterious shadows to unusual movements beneath the surface. The Loch Ness mysteries continued to captivate.
As part of The Quest Weekend, a debate featuring Alan McKenna from LNE, Steve Feltham (the legendary independent Nessie Hunter), and Roland Watson (a writer and blogger on Loch Ness) took place. The event was packed with journalists and enthusiasts eager to hear from the experts themselves. The extended hydrophone cruises with LNE throughout the weekend provided loads of interesting insights…
As the findings from The Quest Weekend emerged, virtual volunteers shared compelling reports and images. Noteworthy sightings included a large shadow, moving humps, and unexplained loud noises from the depths, all captured by hydrophone technology. The Loch Ness Centre and Loch Ness Exploration with Alan Mckenna entered a new era of discovery.
The Quest@lochness.com inbox buzzed with sightings from Loch Ness enthusiasts worldwide. From Lily’s enchanting image to Deirdre’s captivating webcam snaps and Sash’s riveting encounter, the Loch Ness community continued to contribute to the rich tapestry of sightings.
And of course, John’s picture of Nessie that he took on Sunday 8th October at about 5.10pm! He spotted something mysterious in the loch, that was moving slowly towards the tree line before it disappeared. John estimates it to be around 12/15 feet long. It’s our favourite of 2023.
Towards the end of November, the first Meet the Eyewitness with Richard White unfolded. Visitors took tours and engaged with Richard to hear about his mysterious encounter with Nessie in 1997.
As we step into 2024, The Loch Ness Centre is thrilled to announce exciting plans:
We extend our deepest gratitude to the passionate community and all the team at the centre for making 2023 unforgettable.
Happy New Year from everyone at The Loch Ness Centre! We eagerly anticipate even more incredible discoveries and adventures in 2024. See you there!
