A FEW OTHER OPTIONS
In addition to the point-andshoot cameras manufacturers sent me so that I was able to use them in the field, my research turned up a few more possibilities to consider.
The Panasonic Lumix TS7 is designed to withstand drops from almost 7 feet and to endure loads up to 220 pounds, while also offering waterproof protection down to 102 feet. The camera comes with a 20.4-megapixel sensor that takes high-resolution stills and ultra-hd video, and its zooming capabilities deliver the equivalent of a 28-to-128millimeter lens. com; $450) The FUJIFILM PINEPIX XP140 features a 16-megapixel sensor, a 5x optical zoom, and a lithium-ion battery that can take up to 240 images in between charges. The camera’s software features automatic subject recognition (it will autofocus on people’s eyes), multiple self-timer modes and the ability to capture up to 15 frames per second when operating in continuous-shooting mode. Cooler still, the camera’s companion app allows a smartphone to be used as a remote control. (fujifilm.com; $230)
If you’re seeking a distinctlooking camera that’s equally adept on board and ashore, check out SONY’S
W800. Despite its urbanfriendly styling, the W800 is waterproof, shockproof and X-ray-proof, and it can withstand temperature swings from minus 13 degrees Fahrenheit to 185 degrees. The W800 features a 20.1-megapixel sensor, a 5x optical zoom that’s further bolstered by a 40x digital zoom for taking still images, and a 10x digital zoom for video work. The camera’s scene-selection mode includes cruiser-friendly options—nighttime shooting and reflected light— and its Steadyshot Image Stabilization is purportedly great for times when the windward beat is fully selfdescriptive. (sony.com; $100) The OLYMPUS TOUGH
TG-6 might be a point-andshoot camera, but its aftermarket accessories—optional telephoto and macro lenses, floating straps, and an underwater housing—allow shooters to stretch its comfort zone. Couple this with the camera’s 12-megapixel sensor, f/2 lens, and underwater shooting modes, and the Olympus Tough TG-6 is ready to go sailing. The TG-6 is waterproof to 50 feet; it’s built to absorb drops from 7 feet; and it features anti-fog glass. The camera can shoot ultra-hd 4K video, and its built-in Wifi allows it to wirelessly share its imagery with paired smart devices. (olympus-global.com; $450)
Unlike the other point-andshoot cameras featured in this article that are primarily aimed at capturing photographs but can also shoot video, the GOPRO HERO8 inverts this equation, with video as its primary objective. That said, the Hero8 also captures high-resolution still images using its 12-megapixel sensor, and photographers can leverage the camera’s proprietary Superphoto and high-dynamic range capabilities. Also, the Hero8’s Liveburst mode captures 3 seconds of video, from which users can either grab the best of 90 still images, or they can share this slice of time as a tiny 4K60 video. On the video side, the camera features three built-in microphones and noise-canceling technology that reduces the sound of wind, and its Timewarp 2.0 feature allows videographers to slow down or speed up frame rates to create desired effects. The Hero8 recognizes 14 voice commands, a bonus for crew whose hands may be busy. The camera’s Hypersmooth 2.0 stabilization features gives users the ability to level the horizon using the Gopro app, which is key given the heel angles that are involved in sailing to weather. Cooler still, the Hero8 features four digital lenses: narrow, linear, wide and Superview. These provide a ton of on-the-fly options. Finally, the Gopro is waterproof down to 33 feet, and is built to handle lumpy seas and overstuffed sea bags. (gopro.com; $450)