Not a photographer

[Shirim]

Hi,

My partner is an avid diver (he has just completed his 40 meters qualification and plans to take a Diver Master course in the next month).

His birthday is coming up and I want to buy him an underwater camera. He is not a photographer (he has a simple dry-land digital camera which he rarely uses). However, I think he will enjoy an underwater camera (to document his sightings). I therefore think that a decent camera would be appropriate - but not an especially advanced camera.

I would be very grateful for recommendations.

I have been told that the Canon 12 would be a good purchase. However, when searching for it on the internet, I discovered that it is a regular, dry-land camera but for which one can buy an 'underwater case'. What about cameras which are just for underwater use - without cases? Why would the canon G12 be preferable (if I only want an underwater camera)?

Thanks for your kind help.

Shiri