SLR cameras have different degrees of watertightness, the most resistant is probably the Pentax K5






Then its probably the Nikon and Canon pro bodies, then going down to the likes of 7000D, 5D and 60D which have varying degrees of watertightness but can normally survive showers.

The Olypus OM-D E-M5, the one I am interesting in seems to be quite well sealed and I would be condifdent in it surviving anything short of a dunking.

http://forums.dpreview.com/previews/olympusem5/page4.asp?comments=2

A lot of people take their entry level Nikons and Canons on boats and on the beach and they have no water resistance at all. PLus I have had my old Canon S2IS on the beach many times and its no worst for wear. Just need to avoid it getting a direct hit.