1 - Introduction to Marine Guiding Flashcards
What is the primary role of a marine guide?
A marine guide educates and leads people through coastal marine environments, enhancing their understanding of the ecosystem.
What is the main aim of coastal marine guiding?
To expose people to the natural heritage, history, and beauty of the coastal marine environment while ensuring safety and enjoyment.
Why is maintaining a safe distance important in whale watching?
To avoid disturbing the whales and ensuring that their natural behavior is not altered.
What are the key ethical considerations for a marine guide?
Respect for the environment, understanding animal behavior, maintaining a safe distance, and prioritizing conservation over guest satisfaction.
What qualifications are required to become a marine guide in South Africa?
A qualification from FGASA and CATHSSETA, along with a valid First Aid certificate, followed by registration with the NDT.
What environments can a marine guide operate in?
A marine guide can operate in various coastal and marine environments, including marine parks, reserves, coastal cities, aquariums, museums, and other places of interest, focusing on cultural, historical, and natural aspects.
What is the role of a marine guide in relation to guests?
The marine guide acts as a link between the natural and cultural coastal marine environment and the guests, providing an educational experience that enhances their understanding of the environment.
How should marine guiding prioritize safety and enjoyment?
Marine guiding should be conducted within a framework that ensures a high standard of service, prioritizing the safety and enjoyment of guests.
What are the essential steps in preparing for a marine guiding experience?
Preparation includes understanding the guiding area, gathering necessary equipment, checking equipment, establishing procedures, guest check, defining objectives, and planning communication.
What are some key topics a marine guide should cover during the experience?
Key topics include local stories, biome characteristics, weather and climate, ecology, geology and soils, taxonomy, local plants and animals, animal behavior, conservation, and historical human habitation.
What hospitality skills are important for a marine guide?
Important hospitality skills include welcoming guests, providing refreshments (morning drink stops, sundowners, meals), and ensuring a comfortable experience for the guests.
How should a marine guide respond to guest pressure to breach ethical guidelines?
A marine guide must resist guest pressure to breach ethical guidelines, such as getting too close to wildlife, and should always prioritize the welfare of the environment and animals.
Why is it important for a marine guide to understand animal behavior?
Understanding animal behavior helps the guide know how close they can approach without disturbing the animals, ensuring the animals’ natural behavior is not altered.
What are the first aid requirements for a marine guide?
Marine guides must hold a valid First Aid certificate approved by the Department of Labour, South Africa, and be prepared to assist in case of an emergency.
What are the core elements of the guiding principles and code of conduct for marine guides?
Core elements include adherence to professional standards, providing reliable information, ensuring tourist safety, following first aid protocols, and respecting people and the environment.
