Free diving the Vandenberg with two cameras

The following is a video shot while scooter free diving along much of the length of the newly sunk Vandenberg Artificial Reef. It was placed about 7 miles south of Key West in 140 ft. of water. It landed on even keel and provides a pretty amazing dive in the often clear blue waters of the Florida Current. Viz. was limited at about 50 to 60 ft. during the dive and there was a strong current running north. Still some interesting images came out of the dive. The video was shot with a Canon G9 digital camera in their housing with stills being shot every 2 seconds with a Go Pro 170 degree field of view camera in a chest harness.

Scooter free diving can be hazardous. Don't try it without complete and proper training first.

Historical and some contemporary pre-sinking photos from: http://www.navsource.org/archives/09/22/22145.htm

Question, I am looking for a compact backup/alternative to the Canon G9 in their housing for an upcoming overseas trip. I like the video quality that comes out of the G9 as long as I don't zoom. The stills are ok too. Most of my stuff is shot available light so strobes and movie lights usually don't factor into things. I would like something compact like the G9 and that can be readily operated with a single hand if necessary. I would like at least equivalent image quality or better for similar or slightly higher pricing. Any suggestions?

Thanks