Has anyone used the reefmaster dc300/dc310 3.3? Would this make a good starter for UW digital? I am currently using a Nikonos III. Should I be looking at something different? I should probably say that I would want to stay under $800.

Personally, I would go for something a little more capable, even if it cost a bit more. The DC-310 has no optical zoom, it has shutter lag, and I think you would be disappointed with the image quality. If you want something new, look at the Fuji E900 and Ikelite housing (you can easily get both for less than $800) or the Canon A620 with the Ikelite housing (Canon makes a housing as well, but it will probably not work with any external lenses). Either camera will allow you to get good results right away and can be paired with external lenses and strobes in the future, and as a bonus, either camera would make a great land camera as well. If you want something used, check the forum classifieds here and on digitaldiver.net for Olympus C-5050 systems or Fuji F810 systems . . .

Mike