Two sites have been identified for further investigation in the search for the missing fishing vessel Kilda, following specialist survey work off the northern coast of the Isle of Lewis.

The Northern Lighthouse Board vessel NLV Pharos carried out the survey east of the Butt of Lewis over the weekend, with its findings now being examined as part of the continuing investigation into the vessel’s disappearance.

The Marine Accident Investigation Branch will undertake further work to assess both locations, although there has been no confirmation that either site contains the missing fishing boat.

The Kilda was last known to have been operating near the Port of Ness on Tuesday 13 October 2026, with three crew members on board.

Norman Murray, 40, known as Tam, and Murdo Morrison, 23, remain unaccounted for and are being treated as missing people.

Their crewmate Douglas Craigie was recovered from the sea in the area at approximately 2.45am on Wednesday 14 October.

The latest development follows weeks of searching involving Police Scotland, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, specialist maritime teams and local experts.

The deployment of NLV Pharos provided additional specialist survey capabilities to help investigators examine the seabed and identify locations requiring closer attention.

Police Scotland has stressed that the search remains an active operation, with officers and partner organisations continuing their efforts to establish what happened to the vessel and its crew.

Inspector Neil Taylor said:

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

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

“We are grateful for the specialist work of NLV Pharos over the past weekend to progress the search and investigation.

“We continue to work with partners, including the MAIB, Maritime and Coastguard Agency and local maritime experts

“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 discovery of two locations requiring further examination represents another development in the investigation, but the authorities have not yet established whether either is connected to the disappearance of the Kilda.

Police have repeatedly urged members of the public not to undertake their own searches in potentially dangerous coastal or maritime areas.

The families of all three men have also asked that their privacy continues to be respected during this difficult period.

Anyone with information that could assist the investigation, or who has concerns, is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting reference 3575 of 13 October.