I also thought about binos, but the waterproof/resistant type
(nikon,pentax,etc') are too expensive.

I do however carry my camera in a "pelican" case.
I measured the camera, filters, extra film, extra batteries
& I bought the case that can accomodate it.

I've used the case & the camera few times in different weather conditions.
I am very careful when the camera is out of the box.

the nice thing about this box is that it floats ! & it's completely sealed !

I put it under the front deck riggings. It is big & ugly, but very comfortable.

perhaps you can get a box for all the precious stuff you need on deck.

& something else about cameras:

lately I thought of the idea to put a regular single use grocery store type
nylon bag around the camera (or should I say: put the camera in a nylon bag)
& hold it's open side around the lens with a simple rubber band.

It's not w.proof, but sure helps with splashes.

a friend who went to a photography class learned that idea while doing photos
in the rain. I never thouhgt of using it while yaking. well.... now I did.

I use pentax zx 5n with sigma 28-200 / 3.5-5.6

build less, paddle more,

Erez