The guide attaining this qualification will be able to research, design and conduct a guided coastal marine experience in a limited geographical area.   

This guide will be able to present a well informed interpretation of general aspects of the South African coastal marine environment and specific aspects of the natural phenomena and life on the site in question in an entertaining manner to clients. He/she will also be able to point out and explain interesting features of the living components encountered in the coastal marine environment. 

At this level the guide:

• Is operating as a Coastal Marine site guide in a limited capacity but is in the process of development. 
• May be operating as a competent guide in a number of different sites.  A Site usually refers to a particular Coastal Marine Game or Nature reserve, National Park, Wildlife Sanctuary, etc.  
• Has the basic knowledge considered essential to register and legally conduct a limited guided Coastal Marine experience as a FGASA Level 1 Nature Guide in the Coastal-Marine environment.
• Has been declared competent against the requirements of the FGASA Level 1 Marine Guide theoretical and practical assessment.
• Has a valid, up-to-date recognised First Aid certificate.

Once you have joined the Association as a member of FGASA you can apply to write the FGASA Level 1 Marine Guide theory examination.

Payment for the theory examination should be made to FGASA in the same manner as the FGASA fees.  Application and payment for the theory exam can also be made at the same time as your FGASA membership application payment.

Once you have passed (been declared competent for) the FGASA Level 1 Marine theory examination you can apply to be practically assessed.

The practical assessment for the Level 1 Marine Guide qualification is carried out by a registered FGASA assessor in a guiding area of your choice.  You will need to take the assessor on a guided coastal-marine experience in a limited geographical area (with or without paying clients), preferably with clients. 

The practical Assessment will be explained to you in detail by your assessor in the pre-assessment brief.  The assessor will make sure that you know what you will be assessed on so you may prepare yourself for this assessment.  (Refer to the Level 1 Marine Guide Learner Support Pack for details.)  Payment for your practical assessment is made directly to the assessor and does not come to the FGASA office.

Once you have been declared competent for the Level 1 Marine Guide practical and theoretical assessment you will have attained the FGASA Level 1 Marine Guide Qualification.