Hi I’m Donna,

I’ve been a swimmer for as long as I can remember, and the pool has always been my happy place. From my days as a competitive swimmer in my youth to swimming for fun and fitness as an adult, water has been a constant in my life. Teaching my own three children to swim sparked something deeper in me, and about a year ago I decided to turn that passion into a career as a swim instructor.

I specialize in personalized swim lessons that meet each swimmer exactly where they are—whether they’re just learning to feel comfortable in the water, building confidence with their first strokes, or refining technique as they grow. My philosophy is simple: when swimmers feel safe, supported, and encouraged, real progress follows.

I bring a warm, patient, and adaptive teaching style that helps me connect with swimmers of all ages. I love creating lessons that are both fun and purposeful, so that every student not only builds their skills but also leaves the pool feeling proud of themselves. Whether I’m working with toddlers, teens, or adults, my goal is always the same—to help each swimmer feel confident, capable, and joyful in the water.

Hi I’m Donna, I’ve been a swimmer for as long as I can remember, and the pool has always been my... Read More

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