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

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Hi, I’m Mikhayla!

I’ve spent 7 years as a competitive swimmer, but my love for the water started long before that when I first learned to swim in my neighborhood pool.

Over the years, I’ve come to understand just how important swimming is—not just as a life skill, but as a way to build confidence, independence, and joy both in and out of the water.

As an instructor, I focus on creating a fun, engaging, and supportive environment where swimmers feel safe and excited to learn. I believe strong communication with both swimmers and parents is key to success!

I also have experience working with kids with learning differences and diversabilities, and I truly believe that with time, patience, and practice, anyone can become a strong and confident swimmer.

I’ve worked with children as young as 2 and up to age 12, with over 5 years of experience in childcare, volunteering at local schools, summer camps, and now pursuing a future in education.

My goal is to make every lesson a positive, empowering experience, helping kids feel comfortable, capable, and ready to take on the water!

Hope to see you soon!

-Mikhayla

Hi, I’m Mikhayla! I’ve spent 7 years as a competitive swimmer, but my love for the water started... Read More