Research which brands are serviced at your destination in Bermuda.
This is
very important. Scubapro and Aqualung/Seaquest have the best service coverage internationally.
The last thing you want to do is spend $$$ on gear, have something break while in Bermuda, and, for whatever reason, the shop there can't fix it for you (parts not available, lack knowledge to repair, etc.). Not good.
You need to rent/borrow some gear to figure out which features are important for you. I recommend joining a local dive club and expanding your circle of dive buddies. This is a great way to get informed opinions about what gear works best in your local water conditions. Your stay in Bermuda is temporary. If you really enjoy the sport, you'll be using the gear long after you leave Bermuda.
BCD
You have lots of different options for a BCD. Do a couple of in-water demo dives with at least one of each of the various BCD styles: conventional jacket, rear-inflate, hybrid (rear and front/side), and BP/W. If you just try on the BCD in the store, you won't be able to fully appreciate: in-water fit, weight pocket release when loaded with weight, efficiency of air-dumping, how easy it is to activate the dump valves, how useful the pocket positioning is, whether the oral inflate feature is convenient to use, and how securely the tank is anchored to your back.
I've seen folks try on BCDs in a shop and either fall in love with the gear or hate it. Huge mistake!
When shopping around, make sure that the BC manufacturer has a warranty policy in place to repair a bladder puncture.
I've never owned a Scubapro BCD, but based on my dive buddies' experiences, I would
highly recommend the company. Excellent customer service (fixed broken buckles/straps/pockets at no charge 7-10 years after the date of purchase; not sure what the "official" warranty covers), and the company has been around for a long time.
Reg Setup
Similarly, you need to do in-water demo dives with various regs in order to see what features/models work best for you. If you are budget-conscious, go for one of the robust, middle-of-the-line regs. If you ever think you'll be diving in water temps below 50°F, then you might want to look at an environmentally sealed 1st stage. Personally, I like balanced 2nd stages. For 2nd stages, it's helpful to understand what the 2nd stage levers do:
- Venturi/VIVA lever - modulates suction effect behind the 2nd stage diaphragm to make it easier/harder to maintain airflow and applies only after airflow has already started.
- Breathing adjustment knob - modulates cracking pressure of the 2nd stage and controls how easy/difficult it is to start airflow.
For the octo/backup 2nd stage, consider getting the same high quality 2nd stage as your primary.
SPG
Get a simple, robust analog SPG. There are a number of brass-and-glass SPGs on the market for about $60-$70. Alternatively, I've had good luck with the Aqualung CB console. It's made of plastic, but the exterior console plastic protects it rather well. If you're trying to save money, consider getting a used one in good condition. Bear in mind that a brand new HP hose for the SPG can cost $20-$35. Purchase replacement HP spools (there are 3 different kinds; come with one o-ring on each end; typically $5 apiece)for your SPG and store them in your save-a-dive kit with your favorite lube.
Computer
You could get a separate timing device and analog depth gauge. Computers combine both devices into one and present a fairly good value.
Since you're a budget-conscious diver, check out the non-air-integrated nitrox-capable computers. Many of the console-mounted computers can be converted to wristmount with the right mounting option. Deep Sea Supply sells excellent bungeed wristmounts for several different brands/models of computers. Pay attention to whether the battery is user-replaceable. If not, you may have to send the battery back to the manufacturer to get the battery replaced. That kind of service is usually expensive ($50-$100) and certainly inconvenient.
One possible choice is the Suunto Zoop. My local dive shop has been selling the wristmount version of this computer for $210 recently. That's a fabulous deal at an authorized dealer, in my opinion. It's easy to read, easy to use, has a phosphorescent display, and is PC/Mac-downloadable.
Whistle
Choose one without a ball inside. I have the
Wind Storm. It works well and was rather inexpensive. What's not to like?
