Hi there EVH, welcome to the site.
I think boatstand may be right that it could be handy for you to learn how to handle a boat first. Just to get the orientation correct for example, the changing aspects of controlling it coming towards you etc.
But saying that, most find it pretty easy to learn, and if your undecided between a boat and a sub I would go for the challenge of a sub. I am onto my 5th sub now and as they are tricky to build, and you have to measure everything twice, it is by no means insurmountable. You might get bored with a boat
, I did and mine havnt got wet in over 3 years.
I started with a Robbe U47, good kit, wel built and hardy. Maybe keep off Engels and such at first, and stick with a dynamic diver (all Robbe boats) at first.
Any help you need theres a few of us oddballs on here with subs and we are more than willing to help if we can.
You never know there might be more than one sub in Northumberland if you get one ! And you 2 can be scaring the swans and ducks on Tynemouth lake
Regards
Paul