The search for two missing fishermen and their vessel off the Isle of Lewis will continue this week, with a specialist ship being deployed to help establish what happened during the tragic incident earlier this month.

The Northern Lighthouse Board vessel NLV Pharos will begin operating in the area from Friday 30 October as part of the Marine Accident Investigation Branch’s investigation into the disappearance of the fishing boat Kilda.

Norman Murray, 40, known to family and friends as Tam, and Murdo Morrison, 23, remain missing more than two weeks after their vessel was last known to be operating near the Port of Ness.

The Kilda was last reported in the waters off the northern tip of Lewis on Tuesday 13 October, prompting an extensive search operation involving emergency services and maritime organisations.

Tragically, the body of fellow crew member Douglas Craigie was recovered in the area at approximately 2.45am on Wednesday 14 October.

Since then, the determination to find the missing men and establish the circumstances surrounding the vessel’s disappearance has remained at the heart of the continuing operation.

The deployment of NLV Pharos will provide additional specialist resources as investigators work to locate the missing fishing boat.

Police Scotland is continuing to work alongside the Marine Accident Investigation Branch, Maritime and Coastguard Agency and local maritime experts.

Inspector Neil Taylor said:

“Our thoughts remain with everyone affected by this tragic incident.

“We will continue to work with partners, including the MAIB, Maritime and Coastguard Agency and local maritime experts, and are extremely grateful for partners’ resources, which are dedicated to this operation.

“It is imperative we get answers for everyone involved and please be assured our efforts are continuing.

“We would urge people not to put themselves at any risk.

“Please do not attempt to carry out searches in areas which put you at risk of harm.”

The continuing search comes amid considerable concern for the families, friends and wider island community affected by the disappearance.

Police have emphasised that members of the public should not attempt searches in dangerous coastal areas or put themselves at risk.

The families of those involved have also asked for their privacy to be respected as the operation continues.

For the communities of Lewis, where fishing has long been part of island life, the loss and uncertainty surrounding the Kilda have been deeply felt.

The involvement of NLV Pharos represents a further stage in efforts to locate the vessel and provide answers about what happened at sea.

Anyone with relevant information or concerns is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting reference number 3575 of 13 October 2026.