THE new Loch Ness Centre offers visitors the chance to explore one of Scotland’s most famous legends, learn more about scientific research and “debate the existence of Nessie”.
Following a £1.5 million refurbishment, the centre will be officially opening its doors on Saturday, June 10.
The new attraction will offer unique deep-scan cruises with onboard sonar equipment to search the depths of Loch Ness. Fitting 12 guests per cruise, the one-hour boat ride provides views of Urquhart Castle and educational information about the loch.
This year marks the 90th anniversary of Aldie Mackay’s famous Nessie “sighting”, which turned the Scottish legend into a global sensation.
In April 1933, Aldie spotted “an enormous animal rolling and plunging on the surface” of Loch Ness. Referring to the creature as a “monster” for the first time, the story reported by the Inverness Courier made international headlines.
Located at the old Drumnadrochit Hotel where Aldie Mackay used to work as the manager, the Loch Ness Centre intends to provide a range of interactive experiences.
Some of the highly-anticipated stories told in the centre include “This Majestic Place”, “Scottish Myths and Legends” and “The Scientific Search for the Truth”.
According to Visit Scotland, Loch Ness – the country’s second-deepest loch – attracts thousands of visits from overseas tourists, bringing in £1 million to the area each year.
Juliana Delaney, chief executive of Continuum Attractions, which carried out the refurbishment, said: “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.”
Pre-booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended with adult tickets starting from £13.95 and Deepscan Cruises tickets starting from £19.00.
For more information on the Loch Ness Centre, visit: https://lochness.com/
