RedactedNarrative: V1 was engaged in recreational cruising with 9 persons onboard in Estero Bay near channel red 40. A passenger's hat blew off in the wind while under way. V1 altered its course to retrieve the hat from the water. 
  
  Operator of V1 slowed the vessel to a stop, retrieved a type 4 floatation device and entered the water from the stern of V1 to retrieve the hat. 
  
  After retrieving the hat, the operator was struck by the V1's propeller while attempting to climb aboard V1 using the swimmer's ladder. The operator sustained multiple lacerations to right and left legs on inner thigh and knee area. 
  
  Operator/Victim of V1 was transported to Lee Memorial Hospital for treatment of injuries.
  
  Operator sustained a single shallow laceration to left leg on knee cap. Several large deep lacerations to right leg inner thigh above knee. Required surgery for cleaning and treatment.