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VANCOUVER ISLAND, BC PRIVATE SWIM LESSONS

Little steps.
Growing confidence.

Private swimming lessons for children and adults across Vancouver Island. Patient instruction, personal attention, and time to learn at your own pace.

Comfort first, skill second.

Private, family & adaptive lessons.
For little ones, grown-ups, and everyone in between.

An instructor supporting a young swimmer during a one-to-one lesson
Small moments in the pool. Confidence that comes home.
Nanaimo · Nanoose Bay · Parksville · Victoria · Shawnigan Lake · Campbell River · Port Alberni

A DIFFERENT KIND OF SWIM LESSON

There’s no rush
to be brave.

A swimmer practising a float with support from an instructor
That first little float.
A smiling swimmer enjoying a poolside moment with an instructor
A proud poolside moment.

Some swimmers arrive ready to jump in. Others need time at the steps. Both belong here.

We build lessons around the person in the water: their comfort, their goals, and how they learn. That might mean a first float, putting a face in the water, or finding a more comfortable front crawl.

For neurodiverse swimmers, such as those with autism or ADHD, anxious beginners and anyone who hasn’t found their feet in a group class, that individual attention matters.

Talk to us about your swimmer ↗

YOUR FIRST STEP

Tell us a little.
We’ll take it
from here.

Not sure which lesson, instructor or pool is right? That’s what we’re here for.

Let us know where you live and what your swimmer needs. We’ll help you find a good fit.

Or just give us a call.
250-327-3212

A young swimmer beside a wood-lined indoor pool, from Aquanauts’ Nanaimo location photos
Poolside in Nanaimo.

Talk to Our Swim Team

We will help you find the right program.

Send an inquiry and our team will contact you to help with lessons.

Our Programs

Find your kind of lesson.

Start with the format that feels right. We can help with the rest.

Private 1:1 swim lesson Most Popular

One instructor, one swimmer. Full hour or focused 30 minutes. Room to learn at your own pace.

30 min$60
60 min$110
Book Private Lessons →
Kids learning together in a semi-private lesson Siblings + Friends

Siblings or two families together. Same patience, lower per-swimmer price.

Family 30 min$60
Family 60 min$120
Semi-privatefrom $35
Book Family Lessons →
A welcoming residential backyard pool ready for private swimming lessons We Come to You

Certified instructor at your private pool. No drive, no parking, no rec-centre crowds. We bring the full lesson to your backyard or building pool anywhere from Victoria up to Campbell River, with the same 1:1 attention and water-safety focus as our pool locations.

60 min session$120
CoverageIsland-wide
Best forRural + busy families
Book Mobile Lessons →
Adaptive aquatics lesson for a neurodiverse swimmer Free Assessment

1:1 lessons for swimmers with autism, ADHD, sensory sensitivities, and diverse abilities. Calm, predictable structure with sensory-aware pacing and no forced steps, built around your child's comfort. Our team includes a behaviour interventionist, and we can walk you through the BC Autism Funding Unit (AFU) pathway so lessons may be covered.

30-min assessmentFree
BC AFU fundingPathway available
ApproachSensory-aware, 1:1
Book Free Assessment →
Adult learning to swim No Judgment

For beginners, anxious returners, triathletes, prenatal swimmers, and anyone who wants a proper front crawl.

FormatPrivate or semi-private
Length30 or 60 min
Book Adult Lessons →
Certified lifeguard on duty For Events + Facilities

Professional, reliable, certified water safety supervision. Accidents happen in seconds, so even strong swimmers benefit from the peace of mind a lifeguard on deck provides.

EventsParties + backyard pools
FacilitiesClubs, gyms, resort pools
Camps + schoolsOuting supervision
CertifiedLifesaving Society / Red Cross, CPR-C, AED
Get a Quote →
Help me choose a lesson Call 250-327-3212 if you are not sure which fits.
Locations

Your Island.
Your neighbourhood pool.

Private pools, resort pools, and lessons at your own pool. Explore the locations below, then ask us about current openings.

Map of Vancouver Island showing Aquanauts communities from Campbell River to Victoria, including Port Alberni
Our corner of the coast. Map outline: Natural Earth

FIND YOUR COMMUNITY

A familiar pool.
A friendly face.

Choose an area and we’ll help you find an instructor and an available lesson.

Nanaimo has Central and South options. Mobile lessons are also available at suitable private pools.

Central Nanaimo indoor pool
Reconstructed view of the South Nanaimo indoor pool
Central NanaimoSouth Nanaimo

Nanaimo

Two private pools: Central and South. Year-round. Contact us for pool details and availability at each.

Book here →
Pacific Shores Resort pool, Nanoose Bay

Nanoose Bay

Pacific Shores Resort pool.

Book here →
Illustrative coastal indoor residential pool

Parksville

Oceanside Manor.

Book here →
Victoria geodesic dome pool location

Victoria

Near Hillside Mall.

Book here →
Port Alberni outdoor pool

Port Alberni

Now enrolling. Lessons are back in Port Alberni this season.

Book here →
Naturally Pacific Resort indoor pool, Campbell River

Campbell River, Naturally Pacific

700 Petersen Rd. Heated indoor, 28-30°C, 15 to 20m, 3.5 to 8 ft.

Book here →
Kinsol Trestle Pool, Shawnigan Lake

Shawnigan Lake (summer)

June through mid-September. Serves Cobble Hill, Mill Bay, Maple Bay, Duncan.

Book here →
Mobile swim lessons at private pools

Mobile / In-Home Pools

We bring the lesson to your private pool, Island-wide.

Book here →

Also serving: Duncan, Ladysmith, Qualicum Beach, Comox, and surrounding Vancouver Island communities. Don't see your town? Contact us to discuss availability.

Find My Closest Pool Not sure which works for you? We will help you pick.
Beyond Lessons

Around the pool.
Around the community.

Lifeguards for your event. Aquayoga for your week. Partnerships for your community.

Lifeguarding for Events

Certified lifeguards for birthday parties, resort pools, schools, and camps. CPR-C, AED, first aid trained.

Aquayoga

Gentle in-water yoga for adults. Builds breath control, calm, and mobility.

Partnerships

Swim programs for childcare, school districts, alternative learning platforms, and physiotherapy clinics.

Sponsorship + Camps

Seasonal camps and sponsored sessions for community partners. Contact us for current openings.

We partner with schools, childcare, alternative-learning platforms, physiotherapy clinics, and community organizations across Vancouver Island.

SELF DESIGN NIDES HCOS Island ConnectEd Katies Korner Childcare Autism Support BC Balance Physiotherapy Long Lake Physio Superhero Swim University Local School Districts Special Olympics BC Splash About
Meet the Team

People who make
the difference.

Get to know the people in the water with you. Choose a location to meet your local instructors.

Tristan Tolley

Tristan Tolley

Founder · Lifeguard · Instructor

Hi, I’m Tristan, founder of Aquanauts, lifeguard and swim instructor. I teach swimmers of all ages and abilities, with a focus on water safety, confidence and learning at your own pace. My experience coaching Special Olympics athletes helps shape the patient, encouraging approach I bring to every lesson.

Read our story →
Serves: Nanaimo, Nanoose Bay, Parksville, Shawnigan Lake
Book with Tristan →
Catherine May

Catherine May

Lifesaving Instructor Trainer · 30+ Years

Hi, I'm Catherine! I've been involved in aquatics for over 30 years, starting from swim club as a child all the way to managing pools and training new instructors. For almost 20 years, I've been a certified Lifesaving Instructor Trainer and Swim Instructor Trainer, and I've had the privilege of certifying hundreds of instructors throughout my career.

While I enjoy teaching all types of classes, my true passion is working one-on-one with swimmers. I love getting to know each person individually, understanding how they learn, and building the trust and confidence that help them thrive in the water.

Over the years, I've taught swimmers of all ages and abilities, from young children to older adults, individuals with autism and neurodiverse needs, and even specialized training for those pursuing aquatic employment or certifications.

Living on Vancouver Island, I truly believe that everyone should know how to swim and feel comfortable around the water. My goal is to make every lesson a positive, rewarding experience that helps each swimmer develop skills they'll carry for life.

I look forward to working with you or your loved ones and being part of your aquatic journey!

Serves: Campbell River, Comox Valley
Book with Catherine →
Brandon Tolley

Brandon Tolley

Behaviour Interventionist

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!

Serves: Nanaimo, Nanoose, Parksville
Book with Brandon →
Drake McKay

Drake McKay

Masters Swimmer · Head Coach · 10+ Years

Hi, I'm Drake! Swimming has been a core part of my life, and I'm passionate about helping others grow and improve in the water. As a dedicated Masters swimmer, I train rigorously to push my own limits and refine my technique, and I bring that same dedication to my coaching.

With a background in endurance sports and years spent being the head coach of several swim teams, I tailor lessons for swimmers of all levels, whether you're a beginner building confidence or a competitive athlete looking to fine-tune your stroke mechanics.

Beyond the pool, I believe in the power of consistency, personal growth, and community. Swimming isn't just about technique. It's about strength, resilience, and discipline.

No matter your goal, improving efficiency, gaining endurance, or overcoming fear in the water, I'm here to guide and support you every step of the way.

Catch you poolside!

Serves: Victoria, Shawnigan Lake
Book with Drake →
Donna Underwood

Donna Underwood

Masters Coach

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. So I decided to turn that passion into a side career as a swim instructor and Masters Coach.

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.

Serves: Nanaimo (Central)
Book with Donna →
Kesya LeCoz

Kesya LeCoz

Swim Instructor

Hi, I'm Kesya! Movement, wellness, and water have been part of my life for as long as I can remember. I've worked with children, athletes, seniors, and individuals with diverse abilities through recreation, fitness, wellness, and coaching roles over the years.

My background includes training through the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), group fitness instruction, mobility and barre-based movement, aquafitness and Aqua Zumba instruction, as well as Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) and wilderness response training.

I'm passionate about helping people build confidence in their bodies through safe movement, breath control, and body awareness. Water has always been one of my favourite places to teach and connect.

Over the years I've snorkelled and explored oceans during my travels, started diving with PADI, and even worked as a professional mermaid performer! As a mom of four, I've also personally taught my own children swimming, diving, breath control, and water confidence from a young age.

My teaching style focuses on creating a calm, supportive, and encouraging environment where swimmers feel safe, capable, and proud of themselves. Whether working with young children, beginners, or more advanced swimmers, my goal is always to help each person build confidence, skills, and a lifelong comfort in the water.

Serves: Nanoose Bay, Parksville
Book with Kesya →
Find My Instructor Tell us your location and we will introduce you.
Tristan with his father and siblings in the pool, the memory that started Aquanauts
Est. 2025Founded on Vancouver Island
A smiling person holding an Aquanauts Swim Academy sign
The early days of Aquanauts.
Our Story

The Heart Behind Aquanauts

It started with a memory: riding on my dad's shoulders, gliding underwater like a space shuttle ride beneath the surface. Safe, free, and inspired.

In October 2023, my father passed away from stage 4 cancer. I left university to care for my younger siblings, and I made a choice: to turn my lifelong love of swimming into something meaningful, not just for me, but for families across Vancouver Island.

What began as a few private lessons has grown into a community program that has served hundreds of families. To me, Aquanauts is a legacy. It is a way to honor my dad, who first put me in the water.

Our mission is to empower the next generation of explorers and dreamers, building water confidence, safety, and skills in every child while fostering curiosity, resilience, and a spirit of adventure.
Tristan Tolley Founder, Aquanauts Swim Academy
Questions?

A few things you might be wondering.

If you don't see yours, text us at 250-327-3212.

Private 1:1, semi-private (1:2 or 1:3 for siblings or friends), and adaptive lessons for neurodiverse swimmers. All formats focus on water safety first.

Six months to adult. We adjust pace, format, and progression to fit every age group.

We provide swimming lessons throughout Vancouver Island, including Nanaimo, Victoria, Duncan, Ladysmith, Parksville, Port Alberni, Nanoose Bay, Qualicum Beach, Courtenay, Comox, Campbell River, Shawnigan Lake, and surrounding communities. Seven fixed pool locations plus mobile-to-your-pool service from Victoria to Campbell River.

Online at aquanautsacademy.janeapp.com, by email at info@aquanautsacademy.ca, or call or text 250-327-3212.

Once a week is the minimum we recommend for steady progress. Twice or three times a week is available for accelerated learning when scheduling allows.

30 minutes for most swimmers under 5. 60 minutes for older kids, adults, and anyone who wants more time for skill work.

Yes. Fear of water is one of the most common reasons families come to us. Our instructors use gentle, patient techniques and never force a step before your child is ready.

Yes. Family lessons (siblings) and semi-private lessons (two families together) are available at lower per-swimmer rates.

One free make-up lesson per month with 24-hour notice. Cancellations under 2 hours may carry a small fee so we can pay our instructor for the booked time.

Yes. Aquanauts Swim Academy specializes in private swim lessons for infants, children, teens, and adults throughout Vancouver Island. Each lesson is personalized to the swimmer's age, skill level, and goals.

Yes. We provide personalized kids swimming lessons focused on water safety, confidence building, and skill development in a supportive learning environment. Lessons are designed for each child's level and pace.

Yes. Our adult swimming lessons are designed for beginners, intermediate swimmers, and adults looking to improve technique, confidence, and water safety skills. Whether you are starting from scratch or returning to the water after years away, we tailor the lesson to you.

Yes. Our infant swim lessons help young swimmers become comfortable and confident in the water while developing foundational aquatic skills and water safety awareness. We combine learn-to-swim with infant survival rescue fundamentals.

Yes. We provide adaptive aquatics instruction designed to support swimmers with diverse abilities, learning styles, and support needs. Lessons are tailored to each swimmer's individual goals and comfort level. Our team includes a behaviour interventionist and a Master Instructor Trainer.

Have a Different Question? Ask Us We answer every message within one business day.
Google Reviews
5.0 ★★★★★ 149+ 5-Star Reviews
These reviews are pulled directly from our Google Business Profile
Real Families, Real Words

In our swimmers’ words.

★★★★★

Tristan was amazing with my boys who are on the autism spectrum. He showed patience and was able to be flexible with their needs during their lessons. We look forward to working with him again in the future. Highly recommend!

E
Erin M.
Google reviewVerified
★★★★★

Drake is one of the best instructors to have ever taught my children to swim. He is patient, kind, and caring! Aquanauts is by far the best swim school on the entire island. Highly, highly recommend them to anyone looking to get their kiddos into the water and developing crucial water skills!

A
Andrew B.
Google reviewVerified
★★★★★

At 62, I never thought I would be taking swim lessons. I can swim but have always wanted to do a 'proper' front crawl. Thank you so much to Sage for making a front crawler out of me in just two lessons...well enough to start strong at least :)

M
Melissa S.
Google reviewVerified
★★★★★

We cannot say enough good things about Aquanauts! Tristan has been amazing with our 6 year old, who has always been fearful of getting his head and face wet. In just a few private sessions, he has made more progress than he did in years of public swimming lessons. Worth every penny!

K
Kirsten R.
Google reviewVerified
★★★★★

Tristan is an absolute GEM! We call him the swim whisperer as he is able to accomplish things with our son that we've struggled to overcome for years. Our 7 year old son is autistic and has always hated water on his face.

H
Heidi R.
Google reviewVerified
★★★★★

Catherine is AMAZING. She is so so patient and understanding with our neurodiverse son. She asks me questions to try and figure out how his mind works. She follows his lead and lets him be himself while also making sure he's learning swim skills.

A
Amanda C.
Google reviewVerified

See you at the pool.

From a baby's first float to an adult's first front crawl. Whatever brought you here, we will take it from here.

Start Today We’ll help you find an instructor and pool that fit.
3,000+ Lessons 8 Instructors 8 Locations Mobile to Your Pool