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.

​

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.

​

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!

​

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

My name is Sage!

I am a certified swim instructor with over three years of experience. As a student in the Bachelor of Tourism Management program at Vancouver Island University, my coursework has deepened my understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion, and I’m passionate about bringing these principles to the water, creating a welcoming and safe space for every swimmer.

I’m a certified swim instructor through the Lifesaving Society, with certifications in National Lifeguard and Lifesaving Society Instructor. I’ve been a lifeguard for the past two years. For me, swimming is more than just a life skill, it is a unique way to build confidence and discover what we’re capable of, and I am dedicated to sharing this with my students.

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.

I believe that every lesson should be a positive and empowering experience. I’m excited to share my passion for the water and teaching, and I can’t wait to help you or your child dive in and discover the joy of swimming.

Sage

My name is Sage! I am a certified swim instructor with over three years of experience. As a stud... Read More

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