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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Nanoose Bay
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Parksville
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Shawnigan Lake
Aquanaut Trainer: Erica
Years of Experience: 20+ Years
Hi! I’m Erica, and I’ve been teaching kids to swim and love the water for over 20 years.
I was a competitive synchronized swimmer my entire life and started coaching synchronized swimming in 2003 and have worked with athletes of all ages and abilities. One of the highlights of my career was coaching the Jamaican National Synchronized Swimming Team!
Along the way, I’ve also spent more than 15 years working as a lifeguard and swim instructor in recreation centres, helping kids build strong swimming skills and confidence in the water.
Outside of the pool, I’ve worked in local daycares and spent many years supporting children in different environments. And perhaps my most important experience—I’m also a mom to four kids myself! That perspective helps me bring patience, encouragement, and lots of fun to every lesson.
Whether your child is just starting out or looking to improve their skills, my goal is always the same: help them feel safe, confident, and proud of what they can do in the water.
See you and your swimmers soon!
-- Erica
Locations Services:
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Parksville
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Nanoose
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North Nanaimo
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: Brandon Tolley
Years of Experience: 3+ 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: 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: 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
Aquanaut Trainer: Donna
Years of Experience: 2+ Years
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 & 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!
- Donna
Locations Services:
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Nanaimo (Central Location)
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)