FAQ | Expedition Academy

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the EGA course compare to RYA I or RYA II?

The RYA I (Royal Yacht Association) course is aimed at those seeking a basic understanding of powerboating. The course is 1-day long and participants have to be a minimum of 8 years old.

The RYA II course is aimed at those wanting to be able to handle a powerboat in familiar waters by day. The course is 2-days long and participants have to be a minimum of 12 years old.

The Comprehensive Guide Course is specifically aimed at those looking to gain the competence and confidence to join the expedition industry. Our participants learn with the exact gear used by the expedition industry, namely Zodiac Mark 5 boats with Yamaha engines. Alongside the in-depth driver training is the use of VHF radios for expedition operations. Use of GPS, compass, maps and charts for navigation in expedition environments and working as shore party (working with small boats/zodiacs). We offer a stand-alone Comprehensive Guide course, which is 7 days of training and we also offer Comprehensive Guide courses (still 7 days of training), followed by 3 days of assessment/certification. Participants have to be a minimum age of 18 years old.

Does the EGA offer training or assessments?

Both. We offer a range of courses covering core principles in expedition guiding. We also offer certification using qualifications from the Polar Tourism Guides Association (PTGA).

Are the EGA and the PTGA the same thing?

No, the Expedition Guide Academy offers training and certification. The PTGA is a qualification authority. We use PTGA qualifications when we offer certification.

Does the PTGA offer training?

The PTGA sets the qualifications framework and specifics for certification and qualified assessors run the assessments. Assessors typically work for companies that are members of the PTGA or certified Training and Assessment Providers (TAP's). The EGA is an accredited TAP.

The PTGA offers some online training.

Will I get a job after the course?

Our courses have been specifically designed to give you the skills and knowledge you need to enter the expedition industry. During training, our instructors are able to offer unique insights into gaining experience and work as an expedition professional. We at the EGA are proud to follow many of our previous students as they go onboard ships, working as expedition guides, and continuing their learning and development.

Do I need to do the assessment?

Not everyone is looking for certification to match their skills and knowledge. Also, maybe you want to see if expedition guiding is for you. We offer Comprehensive Guide courses that are followed by assessments, together with Comprehensive Guide courses, that stand-alone, meaning, no assessment is offered after the training. If you are looking at gaining work as a professional guide, we highly recommend completing the assessments and gaining the certification, however, our Comprehensive Guide course training will also prepare you to become a professional guide in the industry. Finally, if you are already a guide and have certification. then maybe the stand-alone course is for you to upskill and keep learning.

Do I have to have previous experience to do the course?

No, our courses are designed for those with little or no experience. Built into the course are pre-course learning elements that can be done online before you begin your course. This way you have the foundations you need to build on during the actual course.

Is there something I can do before the course to prepare?

Once you sign up for the course we will send you the pre-course online learning module(s). These are designed so you can begin your professional development straight away.

Where is the training delivered?

We have training bases in Vindekilde, Denmark and New Zealand. We also offer a range of online learning.

Is there a minimum age for the course?

Yes, you need to be at least 18 years of age.

Do I need to bring my own gear?

Yes and no. As a professional guide, the industry will expect you to supply and be proficient with some gear. We supply the core items such as our zodiac (small boat) Mark 5 with a 50hp engine (exactly the setup many operations have), life jackets/PFDs, VHF radios, maps and charts. Because it's very likely that you will work as an expedition guide after finishing the course with us, we want you to already now, have your own gear, that you are familiar with and will continue to use after the training. You'll need to arrive with a handheld GPS, compass and wet weather gear, including boots. We're happy to advise on the best personal gear when you sign up for a course. Being competent and confident with this equipment is essential as an expedition guide.

I’m already a guide, are there more advanced training options?

Yes, our comprehensive guide course can cater to those currently in the expedition industry. We direct our training to each individual and personal level of skills. We also offer courses with more advanced zodiac training and skills.