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 Connie!

Water isn’t just where I work — it’s where I live. As a multi-certified aquatics professional with over two years specializing in Aqua Fitness, I combine physical strengthening with the fluid, therapeutic nature of the water. My BCRPA certifications in Group Fitness and Weight Training, along with my Watsu Level 1 training, allow me to bring a unique depth of aquatic bodywork awareness to every session I lead.

My connection to the ocean runs deep. I’m a Certified Coastal Skipper, the proud mom of a 5-year-old daughter, and my partner has spent over 20 years as a dedicated surfer. The water is woven into the fabric of our family life — and that means safety, respect, and pure joy in the water are at the heart of everything I teach.

I love creating a safe, patient, and encouraging environment where swimmers of all ages build genuine confidence. Whether I’m guiding toddlers through their first splashes, supporting teens, or helping adults refine their technique, I meet each swimmer exactly where they are — and help them reach their milestones at their own pace.

I believe being in the water should be empowering and transformative. I can’t wait to share my love of the aquatic world with you — and help you or your child discover the incredible confidence that comes with truly mastering the water.

— Connie

Hi, I’m Connie! Water isn’t just where I work — it’s where I live. As a multi-certified aquatics... Read More