Camera suggestions?

[Damned67]

Hi All,
I'm in the market for a new camera. I have a nice Canon DSLR that I love, but A) the Girlfriend hates me taking it on the boat, and B) it's too big for the 'yak.
So, I'm looking for a reasonable compact camera. OK, reasonable, but with a budget of about $250....
I would generally like something with a decent optical zoom, but as it's for the 'yak and boat, I'd probably side with a better lens over a longer optical zoom.
I'm not interested in any of that wi-fi/GPS bollocks in a compact camera.

So, anyone been through this recently, and what did you choose?

Cheers!

[Triple]

For the yak I'd be looking at the waterproof Panasonic lumix ft range - http://panasonic.com.au/Products/Lumix/Tough/Product+listing I have a ft1 and it does its job. Ft20 for $190 - http://www.digitalcamerawarehouse.com.au/prod8863.htm The Ft4 has the GPS bollocks but that does come in handy when you take a pic you can post it in google earth and know where you caught what for future reference (assuming you don't already mark each fishing spot that produces on the yak)

or the Olympus tough range - http://www.olympus.com.au/Products/Digital-Cameras/Tough.aspx

Tg320 for $178 - http://www.digitalcamerawarehouse.com.au/prod8641.htm

[Big_Bass_Fisherman]

I agree with triple, i have one of the older Panasonic lumix either ft1 or 2 and it has worked great. It is three years old which is pretty good for a waterproof camera, it has also been dropped on to a reef about 10m deep. Its only rated at 3m. I dont go diving with it any more as i dont trust the seels but it does the job in the yak. I also have the ft4 as a work camera and they are brilliant. Here is a pic from the Ft4.

http://img811.imageshack.us/img811/8441/p1000057w.jpg

[MangroveZac]

Pentax Optio WG-2 16MP Waterproof Digital Camera, simply brilliant.

[Damned67]

Thanks for the suggestions...
Off to the camera shop tomorrow to sample their range.

Cheers!

[Jakers 69]

Have a look at the Nikon as well.
Compare them on the www.

[Rip it up]

I have a new Olympus waterproof camera. $200 duty free. Awesome for a knock about take anywhere camera. I had the original stainless shock proof one. ( from the add where the dog slobbers on it). Last 6 years before the seals died underwater on holiday in Thailand.

[Apollo]

Yeah Jas, I have a lumix and it has been great. I have taken some good shots under water of fish/whales and so far, so good. Cheap, tough and idiot friendly.

[Fed]

Canon Powershot A495 $69 on special from Dick Smiths a couple of years ago.
Can't fault it.