Expert Swim Instructors
At AquaNauts Swim Academy, our licensed private swimming instructors are experts in water safety and skill development, with a passion for helping you achieve confidence and mastery. Inspired by the spirit of exploration, our instructors guide you through every stroke as you dive into your potential and soar beyond your expectations—turning each lesson into an aquatic mission of discovery and achievement
Aquanaut Trainer: Tristan
Years of Experience: 10+ Years
Hi, I’m Tristan!
I’m a lifeguard and swim instructor with over 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
Locations Services:
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Nanaimo
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Lantzville
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Nanoose Bay
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Parksville
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Shawnigan Lake
Aquanaut Trainer: JLee
Years of Experience: 7+ Years
Hi, I’m JLee!
I’ve been swimming my entire life, for as long as I can remember. I first started in the water at 6 months old doing daddy-daughter swim lessons. I continued developing my love for the water and swimming skills by taking private lessons with my first swim instructor, Ms. Liz. Ms. Liz rapidly became my favourite person, my mentor, and the motivation behind my swimming career. Because of her, I then transitioned at age 6 to competitive swimming and continued swimming competitively from age 6 until college.
My swimming career flourished and was filled to the fullest for a multitude of reasons. From the ribbons, medals, and awards to the relationships with my coaches, the friendships I made, and the valuable life lessons I acquired, I couldn’t imagine my life without swimming.
My love for the water didn’t stop after my last swim meet, as I then began to teach private swim lessons and coach summer swim camps alongside my high school swim coach.
I have since moved to Vancouver Island to be with my family and pursue an education in early childhood education. With my compassion and empathy for children, in addition to my passion for swimming, I strive to have an immense positive impact on children’s lives and their development both in and out of the water.
As a swim instructor, I welcome kids of all ages and abilities. I am dedicated to ensuring that every lesson provides children with the security, comfort, and enthusiasm necessary for learning, while also including the essential life skill of water safety.
I hope to influence your child in the same way Ms. Liz influenced me and share my love for swimming with your child.
Looking forward to meeting you at the pool.
- JLee
Locations Services:
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Nanoose Bay
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Parksville
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Lantzville
Aquanaut Trainer: Sage Gibson
Years of Experience: 3+ Years
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
Locations Services:
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Nanaimo
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Nanoose
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Parksville
Aquanaut Trainer: Brandon Tolley
Years of Experience: 2+ Years
Brandon Tolley – Swim Instructor
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
Locations Services:
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Nanaimo
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Nanoose
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Parksville
Aquanaut Trainer: Drake
Years of Experience: 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!
-Drake Mckay
Locations Services:
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Victoria
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Shawnigan Lake
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Aquanaut Trainer: Alexis
Years of Experience: 3+ Years
Hi, I’m Alexis!
I’m a dedicated swim instructor and lifeguard with over three years of experience, and I’ve found my passion at the intersection of water safety, child development, and education. From the very first time I stepped onto the pool deck, I knew this was more than a summer job — it was a place where I could truly make a difference.
For me, teaching swimming goes beyond demonstrating strokes or watching the water — it’s about building real connections with kids, helping them overcome fears, and watching them grow into confident, capable swimmers. Whether I’m guiding a toddler through their very first lesson or leading a group of energetic teens in a Bronze Medallion course, I bring positivity, patience, and genuine care to every session.
I’m currently completing my third year as an Elementary Education major, and my academic background in child development, classroom management, and instructional design has only strengthened my approach to teaching in the pool. I understand how kids learn differently, how to motivate them through encouragement and structure, and how to create a safe, fun, and supportive environment where they can take risks and succeed.
What drives me most is the opportunity to empower children. Whether it’s their first time putting their face in the water or the moment they swim across the pool on their own — seeing that growth and confidence bloom is what makes this work so rewarding. I don’t just see myself as an instructor, but as a mentor and role model they can trust.
As I continue my journey toward becoming a full-time educator, I’m incredibly grateful for everything aquatics has taught me: patience, leadership, responsibility — and the joy of helping kids believe in themselves.
Hope to see you at the pool soon!
– Alexis
Locations Services:
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Nanaimo
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Chemainus
Aquanaut Trainer: Catherine May
Years of Experience: 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!
- Catherine
Locations Services:
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Campbell River
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Comox Valley
Aquanaut Trainer: Maurya
Years of Experience: 40+ Years
Hi, I’m Maurya!
I’m a retired Aquatic Supervisor with over 40 years of experience in the aquatics field. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of teaching swimmers of all ages and abilities, training lifeguards and instructors, and helping people build a lifelong relationship with the water. As a Master Instructor Trainer with the Red Cross, I’ve specialized in water safety, stroke development, and adaptive swim instruction. I’m also a certified water fitness instructor and enjoy creating personalized fitness plans for those looking to stay active and healthy in the pool.
My approach to teaching is all about combining fun with strong foundational skills. I truly believe that everyone can learn to feel comfortable, confident, and playful in the water—regardless of age or experience. I tailor every lesson to meet the unique needs of each swimmer, making sure we build technique, confidence, and enjoyment along the way.
I’m excited to work with you and help make your time in the water not just safe, but truly rewarding!
See you soon!
Maurya
Locations Services:
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Port Alberni (Summer)
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Parksville (Fall/Winter)