1. Getting Started

​

Who are EGA courses designed for?

​

Our courses are built for people who want to work professionally as expedition guides, whether you’re brand new to the industry or already working onboard and looking to develop further. We train individuals from a wide range of backgrounds: outdoor guides, scientists, adventure tourism professionals, photographers, field staff, students, and those shifting careers into expedition travel. 

Furthermore, we help operators train their expedition staff, delivering our classic courses and bespoke training.

​

I already have experience as a guide. Is the training still relevant for me?

​

Yes. Many of our students come with guiding experience from hiking, kayaking, science fieldwork, ski/sail expeditions, warm-water expedition ships, or other outdoor industries. The Comprehensive Guide Course and other advanced programs bridge the gap between previous guiding skills and the specific professional demands of expedition cruise operations.

​

If you’re new to polar or cold-water environments, the courses provide the competence, confidence, and real-world context needed to transition smoothly.

​

I’m completely new to guiding. Can I still join?

​

Absolutely. No previous experience is required.

Our pre-course online learning gives you the essential foundation before you arrive, so you’re ready to build skills on the water, on shore, and in the classroom.

​

I’m not sure which course is right for me. Where should I start?

​

Most people begin with the Comprehensive Guide Course (CGC).

It covers a full range of core skills needed to work on expedition vessels and is designed as the first major step into the industry. From there, you can add:

​

• Polar Bear Safety & Firearm Handling Course (PBS), for those working in polar bear territory

• Zodiac Rescue & First Aid Course (ZRA), advanced practical emergency skills

• EGA's Comprehensive PTGA Assessment, a professional certification

​

If you need help choosing, send us a message. We’re always happy to help and guide you. If you would like to have a chat, take a look at our Compass Call option.

​

 

2. Preparing for the Industry

​

When should I apply for jobs in the expedition industry?

​

Hiring cycles vary, but as a rough guide:

​

• Antarctic season: recruitment typically starts in April–September

• Arctic season: recruitment typically starts in December–April

​

Companies often hire several months in advance.

Completing the CGC early gives you time to prepare applications and approach operators when hiring opens.

 

Where are your courses held?

 

We currently run training in:

​

• Denmark (West Zealand)

• New Zealand (South Island)

• We also offer online learning modules and operator-specific onboard training.

• If you are an Operator, then we can deliver training for your team worldwide.

​

What should I bring for the CGC course?

​

A full packing list is provided after booking. But to give you a rough idea. 

You’ll need:

• Weatherproof clothing suitable for cold/wet environments

• Waterproof boots

• Personal GPS (Smartphone)

• Compass

• Warm layers, gloves, hat

​

We provide all technical equipment such as Zodiacs, PFDs, radios, and charts.

​

Do I need to be very fit?

​

A reasonable level of physical ability is required; you’ll be moving in and out of Zodiacs, lifting equipment, and working outdoors in varied conditions. Most people manage well with normal day-to-day fitness. If you have concerns, contact us and we can advise.

​

Is the training suitable if English isn’t my first language?

​

Yes, many of our students speak English as a second language. You’ll need a functional, working level of English to follow instructions, communicate on the water, and participate safely, but fluency is not required.

​

 

3. Course Structure & Options

​

What’s the difference between the CGC and CGC + PTGA Assessments?

​

CGC (Training Only):

A 7-day intensive course covering fundamental skills. Ideal if you’re exploring the industry, looking for a challenge, want to upskill, or plan to complete PTGA assessments later.

​

CGC + PTGA Assessments:

The 7-day course followed by a 3-day assessment block with qualified PTGA Assessors. Recommended for those seeking formal certification as part of entering the industry. The PTGA assessments also provide the opportunity to continue learning and gain formal recognition for your skills and knowledge. 

​

Do I need the assessments to work in the industry?

​

Assessments are strongly recommended, but not mandatory everywhere. Many good operators recognise PTGA qualifications and value the professional standard they represent. However, the 7-day CGC alone gives you a solid foundation for professional guiding, and you will walk away with the PTGA-accredited EGA Training Certificate.

​

What PTGA qualifications can I gain?

​

We offer a range of PTGA assessment modules (ASM) immediately after the CGC.

These include:

• Driving Small Boats/Zodiacs 

• Working with Small Boats/Zodiacs 

• Navigation Skills for Polar Operations 

*As part of the assessments with us, you will have completed the online PTGA assessment: Radio & Satellite Phone Communications.​

​

By successful completion of our Polar Bear Safety & Firearm Handling Course

​

• Firearm Skills for Polar Bear Environments 

​

Does EGA offer both training and assessment?

​

Yes. We deliver high-level training, and we are an accredited Training & Assessment Provider (TAP) with the Polar Tourism Guides Association.

​​

​

4. Course-Specific Questions

​

Is the Polar Bear Safety & Firearm Handling Course right for me?

​

This course is for anyone working in polar bear habitat, Svalbard, Greenland, the Canadian Arctic, or similar regions.
It covers:

​

• Bear behaviour and risk assessment

• Non-lethal safety systems

• Firearm handling and live-fire training
  Minimum age is 18. No prior firearm experience is required.

​

Do you offer the PBS course outside Denmark?

​

Currently, all PBS courses are held in Denmark. This allows us to use the appropriate range facilities and meet regulatory requirements for firearm training.

​

Is the Zodiac Rescue & First Aid Course suitable for individuals?

​

Yes. Although it is popular with operators training full teams, we run an individual-enrolment version designed for guides wanting advanced rescue, self-rescue, and emergency skills, together with gaining current first aid certification.

​

Are your online courses recognised in the industry?

​

Yes. Our online modules are created specifically for expedition professionals and complement your practical training. They’re frequently used by guides preparing for the field or refreshing key knowledge.

​​

​

5. Costs, Logistics & Practicalities

​

Do you offer accommodation?

​

Accommodation arrangements vary by location. Full details are provided for each course in the course description.

​

How do I get to the training locations?

​

We provide full details, including airport connections, shuttles, and local travel recommendations, once you enrol. Students are responsible for travel to and from their training. 

​​

Will I get a job after the course?

​

We cannot guarantee employment; no training provider can. However, the CGC and our advanced courses are built around the real expectations of the industry, and we regularly see our graduates go on to work for a wide range of excellent operators. We also share advice, industry insights, and practical next steps during training.

​​

​

6. Industry Comparisons & Qualifications

​

How does the EGA training compare with RYA or SVOP?

​

RYA and SVOP certifications are boating courses. RYA Level II is a 2-day training focused on small powerboat handling in non-expedition environments. SVOP (Canada) is a classroom-based commercial operator training.

​

The Comprehensive Guide Course is different:

It is designed specifically for expedition cruise operations and covers navigation, VHF communications, Zodiac operations, shore party work, risk management, field safety, and team dynamics, not generic boating. Some operators require RYA due to insurance, but the skills you learn on the CGC are far more aligned with real expedition guiding.

 

Are the EGA and the PTGA the same organisation?

​

No. The EGA delivers training and assessments and was co-founded by Pernille Søegaard and Ben Jackson in 2019. The PTGA is an independent qualification authority. We (the EGA) are an accredited Training & Assessment Provider (TAP) for the PTGA qualifications. 

​​

​

7. Final Questions

​

Do you offer custom or team-specific training?

​

Yes, we work with many operators to deliver bespoke programmes for their operations in the Arctic, Antarctic and everywhere in between. Please visit our Training for Operators page for details.

​

Still have questions?

​

We’re here to help.

Send us an email anytime. We know stepping into the expedition industry is a big decision, and we’re happy to guide you through it.