I have the Panasonic/Lumix FZ-35 which I believe is a predecessor of the FZ-200. They are very similar. I've used it for the past 3 years on my trips, its a great camera. This year I had a little windfall and decided I wanted a "true" DSLR so I bought a Canon T5i. So far I think the FZ-35 is still my fav, but I haven't become familiar enough with the new Canon to make a valid judgement, but it is bigger and heavier and more expensive. I had always used a little waterproof roll top fanny pack and an extra ziplock as a camera bag, but my Canon won't fit.

I also keep a small point-and-shoot (I have a few different ones I've collected) in my PFD pocket. Only one has a view finder, which I like for bright sunny days, but it now has a small blur on the image.

I'm also looking at the Pelican 1200. Looks pretty good for under $40.

Good luck with the night sky photography. Last year was the first year I was up late enough on a clear night to see the stars. They were incredible.