DIGITAL SNAPS The world's first dedicated digital dive cameras - that's the claim made for the new Sealife Reefmaster Digital range. One-button operation, three modes of operation, an on-board memory supplemented by a 32Mb card giving 64 high resolution images, 2x digital zoom, and an optional external underwater flashgun and accessory close-up lenses are all features shared by the DC100 and DC200 models. The DC200, rated to 60m, comes with ni-mh batteries and MGI Photo Suite software and costs �500. The �400 DC100 is rated to 30m.

FAST AND LOOSE Located at the Leeward Marina in Providenciales (TCI), Big Blue Unlimited has immediate access to the Princess Alexandra Nature Reserve, as well as French Cay, North West Point and Grace Bay. All its boats are fast catamarans for only 8-10 guests at one time and Big Blue hosts the O2 Technical Diving facility for nitrox, trimix and CCR divers too. Above all, Big Blue says it aims to show divers the wonders of the Turks & Caicos Islands in the most relaxed and professional manner.

TAKING CARE The Care4 range of products from Typhoon International is designed to help you look after your drysuit and other diving gear. Shampoo4suits is made to remove salt, dirt, oil and chlorine from both wetsuits and drysuits. Silicone Spray lubricates and protects metal and is said to make suit entry easier. Care4zips is a special formulation that provides a protective coating. Care4seals is designed to preserve and lubricate rubber seals in areas of high wear. And Care4vision is claimed to prevent fogging on masks and other surfaces prone to that problem.

FLAUNT IT Atlantis Diving Supplies, a new company set up with help from The Prince's Scottish Youth Business Trust, offers leisure-diving wear with a range of embroidered designs that reflect various diving certifications. The large range includes Rescue Diver, Advanced Open Water Diver, Underwater Photographer, Nitrox Diver, Wreck Diver and HSE Commercial Diver. T-shirts cost from �15 and there are also sweatshirts and polo shirts from which to choose. Fleece tops cost �22.

SIMPLY PHOTOS The MX-5II camera has been upgraded to offer better-quality underwater photographs, says Sea & Sea. The 35mm film loads automatically, the camera switches on when you fold up the sportsfinder, and the built-in flash fires automatically if there is not enough light. This will trigger the YS-20A auxiliary flashgun, which gives auto exposure too. Focus is set from two-thirds of a metre, or you can fit a close-up lens. "No experience necessary!" claims the maker. Rated to 40m. Expected to be around �390, with camera and flash also available separately.

MIX 'N' MATCH Confused by all those arguments about the merits of twins and singles, H-valves and isolation valves? Poseidon claims that its all-new Multi Purpose Valve or MPV can be assembled in any one of 145,000 different combinations, subject to the user having the right parts. So fit one of these to your tank and let it grow with you! There is claimed to be no waste because each purchased component is re-usable in whichever configuration the owner might later adopt. Price for the complete cross-flow assembly illustrated is around �89.

WHALE OF A TALE No fewer than 15 species of whale and dolphin have been recorded off the coast of North Sulawesi, and divers are invited to join a special cetacean-spotting expedition during the peak period of August and September. The trip begins in Manado for four or more days of diving in the Bunaken Marine Park and then moves on to a six-day liveaboard trip to the Sangh Talaud archipelago. The organisers hope to see at least 14 different species on this all-inclusive trip on Singapore Airlines, departing 6 September. It costs �1572.

ANOTHER WIND-UP The new British-made Delta Mini Max reel from Submerge has stainless-steel fittings, 65m of 1.4mm line and is available in black, yellow or orange. An extra nice feature is the extending winding handle which, it is claimed, saves a lot of wear and tear on your knuckles when you use it. �45.

TAYLOR-MADE Ownership of the Tenerife Dive Club in South Tenerife has been taken over by British divers David and Yvonne Taylor. Helped by chief instructor Paul Hardy, the club holds a PADI Gold Palm as well as having strong links with the BSAC. It is also an IANTD facility with nitrox available. With water temperatures between 19-25�C, the Taylors say the centre offers all-year-round diving with airport transfers, accommodation and car hire at competitive prices.

FRENCH CONNECTION Trust the French to come up with so many different ways to dress under water. Beuchat, the long-established diving equipment manufacturer from the other side of La Manche offers the Focea 5mm one-piece wetsuit, the 5mm Focea shorty, a 5.5mm cagoule, a cagoule with hood attached, the Atlantik 3mm superskin and a separate hood. Pack that lot in your dive bag before you set off on holiday and you're bound to have something appropriate, however hot or cool the conditions.

TIDAL MOVEMENTS The Good Beach Guide is the ultimate independent guide to water-quality and sewage discharges at over 1000 beaches across Britain. The good news is that in the 2002 edition just published there are 341 beaches, 66 more than last year, which now meet recommended standards. The guide is published every year as part of the Campaign For Clean Seas, this year in partnership with the Crown Estate and Cheltenham & Gloucester.

SCHOOLING TIDDLERS This selection of sea-life comes in a tube and includes all the whales and sharks so popular with kiddies - and divers, for that matter. A great hammerhead, great white, humpback, orca and sperm whale are all included, and non-toxic plastic means that they are safe for any child over three, even if they should give them an exploratory chew. �5.

WEBSTER'S WORKSHOP Mark Webster will conduct a special photo workshop week at Bunaken and the Lembeh Strait in Manado, North Sulawesi, commencing 5 November. There are spaces left for only four divers. When Diver visited the area we called it the "Core of Creation". It's a paradise for those interested in macro photography and is being hosted by Eco Divers, which has two newly constructed dive boats. Flights are with Singapore Airlines and accommodation is at the Tasik Ria Resort. Cost is �1585 per person.