This Course is Accredited by CATHSSETA and complies with Unit Standard: 335816 "Conduct a guided adventure experience (whale watching)" NQF Level 4: 8 Credits
{Accreditation Number: 613/P/000285/2015}
This is not a Tour Guide Course. (However the modules are part of our Tourist Guide Level 2 Course, and will be credited accordingly)
Any Tour activity requires the presence of at least a qualified Level 2 Site Guide, and should have completed a specialized accordingly - see our Marine Nature Site Guide Course.
This course was initially approved by DEA during the earlier days of BBWW Permit issue, but is no longer a Permit requirement!
It is a comprehensive course and covers the Geography and Metrology of the South African marine and coastal areas, Weather Conditions, some common Species of animal, fish and reptiles that are likely to be encountered in different areas during normal whale watching excursions along the coastline, community involvements and much more.
Tourists go whale and dolphin watching for a mostly holistic experience - they want to know more about the marine and coastal environment, other species and local area information, in addition to being able to see whales or dolphins. Thus crew members as well as the on-board Guide need to be familiar with these aspects in their area, and be able to impart their knowledge in a credible and interesting way to the inquisitive tourist. It also helps to be able to direct tourists' attention to other species and points of interest while searching for cetaceans that may on may not be encountered.
The Course attempts to give the learner an extensive overall knowledge of the ecosystems in which they will be working. The mandatory Approach Regulations and Permit Conditions for Boat-Based Whale Watching are also included for BBWW Operators with Permits for BBWW.
The entire course consists of 12 Modules, all of which have to be completed successfully in order to obtain accreditation. A 13th Module applies specifically to Boat Based Whale Watching - Permit Conditions and Best Practice.
To obtain the Accreditation Credits and SAQA recognition (NQF4:8 credits), learners must in addition, be assessed as competent by an accredited Assessor. This can be arranged at additional cost, dependent on the area.