RedactedNarrative: The operator let go of the tiller to catch his hat which had blown off. The boat turned sharply and caused the operator to be thrown overboard from his seat. His hand was caught in a cleat, which caused his thumb to be ripped almost completely off by the force. The passenger was able to get the boat under control, the motor turned off and the operator back in the boat. He was airlifted to a hospital in Duluth. Alcohol was not a factor. Life jackets were being worn. There was no damage to the boat.