Hi, I’m Tristan!

I’m a lifeguard and swim instructor with nearly 10 years of experience teaching swimming lessons to people of all ages and abilities. My love for swimming began at a young age, and over the years, I’ve developed a passion for sharing my knowledge and skills with others to help them feel confident and safe in the water.

I started Aquanauts Swim Academy on Vancouver Island to create a swim academy that combines high-quality, personalized instruction with a sense of adventure and discovery. Our mission is to empower swimmers of all ages to build water confidence, master safety skills, and explore their potential—whether it’s their first splash in the pool or working toward lifelong swimming goals.

One of my proudest accomplishments has been coaching athletes through the Special Olympics, where I’ve seen the transformative power of swimming in building confidence, improving physical fitness, and achieving personal milestones. This experience inspires me every day to make AquaNauts a place where everyone feels supported and encouraged, no matter their starting point.

I also love combining the elements of learn to swim with infant survival rescue—watching little ones discover the joy of swimming while learning to be incredibly safe and begin self-rescue is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do. I aim to create a fun, patient, and positive learning environment where students of all ages feel comfortable, excited, and motivated to learn.

Swimming is more than a skill—it’s a life-saving ability and a gateway to lifelong health and enjoyment. My goal with AquaNauts Swim Academy is to make swimming accessible, enjoyable, and enriching for everyone.

Happy Swimming!

-Tristan

Hi, I’m Tristan! I’m a lifeguard and swim instructor with nearly 10 years of experience teaching... Read More

Hi, I’m Brandon!

I’m a certified swim instructor with training in Bronze Medallion, Bronze Cross, and Swim Instructor certifications through the Lifesaving Society. I’ve spent the last several years working closely with children and individuals with diverse needs—both as a behaviour interventionist at Coast Karma and through my work in daycares and as a kids’ dance instructor at VIBE Studios.

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I love creating a safe, fun, and encouraging environment where swimmers can build confidence, learn essential skills, and truly enjoy their time in the water. Whether I’m working with beginners who are just getting comfortable or more experienced swimmers refining their technique, I’m all about meeting each swimmer where they’re at and helping them reach their goals at their own pace.

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My lessons are focused on water safety, skill-building, and of course—having fun. I believe that learning to swim is not only a vital life skill but a great way for kids to build confidence and discover what they’re capable of!

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I can’t wait to dive in and help your swimmer conquer the water!

— Brandon

Hi, I’m Brandon! I’m a certified swim instructor with training in Bronze Medallion, Bronze Cross... Read More

Hi, I’m Alexis!

I’m a dedicated swim instructor and lifeguard with over three years of experience, and I’ve found my passion at the intersection of water safety, child development, and education. From the very first time I stepped onto the pool deck, I knew this was more than a summer job — it was a place where I could truly make a difference.

For me, teaching swimming goes beyond demonstrating strokes or watching the water — it’s about building real connections with kids, helping them overcome fears, and watching them grow into confident, capable swimmers. Whether I’m guiding a toddler through their very first lesson or leading a group of energetic teens in a Bronze Medallion course, I bring positivity, patience, and genuine care to every session.

I’m currently completing my third year as an Elementary Education major, and my academic background in child development, classroom management, and instructional design has only strengthened my approach to teaching in the pool. I understand how kids learn differently, how to motivate them through encouragement and structure, and how to create a safe, fun, and supportive environment where they can take risks and succeed.

What drives me most is the opportunity to empower children. Whether it’s their first time putting their face in the water or the moment they swim across the pool on their own — seeing that growth and confidence bloom is what makes this work so rewarding. I don’t just see myself as an instructor, but as a mentor and role model they can trust.

As I continue my journey toward becoming a full-time educator, I’m incredibly grateful for everything aquatics has taught me: patience, leadership, responsibility — and the joy of helping kids believe in themselves.

Hope to see you at the pool soon!

– Alexis

Hi, I’m Alexis! I’m a dedicated swim instructor and lifeguard with over three years of experienc... Read More