otterswim

Now serving Hamilton

Swim lessons that come to your backyard.

A vetted, first-aid-certified instructor teaches your child one-on-one in your own pool — on the days and times you choose.

Background-checked instructors First lesson the week you pick Fully insured

How a booking works

  1. 1Send your request

    Your area, the swimmer, your pool, and the times that work for you.

  2. 2We match your instructor

    A vetted local coach for your child's level, with a proposed schedule to approve.

  3. 3Your instructor comes to you

    Private one-hour lessons at your pool, with a progress note after each one.

Safety first, always

Every instructor is vetted before they set foot on a pool deck

You're inviting someone into your pool and trusting them with your kid. Here's what that person has already cleared.

Vulnerable-sector check

A current police record check for working with children, on file before the first lesson.

Standard First Aid & CPR-C

Current certification including infant and child CPR, renewed on schedule.

Certified to teach

Lifesaving Society Swim Instructor certification plus a skills check with our head coach.

Liability insured

Commercial coverage for every lesson delivered on your property.

Simple pricing

$50/ hour

Private, one-on-one, at your pool. Prices in CAD.

Book lessons
  • Same instructor every lesson, with a progress note after each one
  • First lesson opens with a quick swim assessment and a plan
  • Sibling in the same hour: +$25
  • Pay by Interac e-transfer after each swim lesson — nothing upfront
  • Reschedule up to 12 hours ahead at no charge

Just outside Hamilton? Send a request anyway — we're expanding.

Book your swim lessons

Takes about 3 minutes. This sends a lesson request — we confirm exact times by email within 24 hours. Pay by Interac e-transfer after each swim lesson.

    Where are the lessons?

    We serve Hamilton and the surrounding area — Ancaster, Dundas, Stoney Creek, the Mountain, and nearby.

    Need help? Call 437-655-6474. Requests are sent securely through FormSubmit to otterswim0@gmail.com.

    Good questions

    Things parents ask before booking

    What kind of pool do I need?

    Any private pool your instructor can safely teach in — in-ground or above-ground, as long as there's a shallow area or a spot where a young child can be supported. Hot tubs don't work for lessons. Not sure? Book a first lesson and the instructor will assess it in person.

    What ages do you teach?

    Ages 3 to 14. Under 3, water comfort is really a parent-and-tot activity, so we'd point you to a class program instead.

    What if it rains or we need to reschedule?

    Lessons run in light rain but not thunderstorms. Reschedule up to 12 hours ahead with no charge. Same-day cancellations use one lesson credit.

    How and when do I pay?

    $50 per one-hour lesson, in CAD. Pay by Interac e-transfer after each swim lesson is finished. We'll provide the e-transfer details when confirming your booking. No payment is collected through this form and nothing is due upfront.

    Does an adult need to be home?

    Yes. A parent or guardian must be on the property for the entire lesson for anyone under 14.