The final video in the Sober Skipper™: Why It Matters series—featuring professional wakeboarder Thomas Herman—launched during National Safe Boating Week (May 17–23), and its message couldn’t be more timely.

Thomas brings a unique perspective to the campaign as both an athlete and a lifelong water sports enthusiast. In the video, he shares why designating a Sober Skipper is essential—not just for the safety of those on board and on the water, but to support his focus and performance behind the boat. His story emphasizes that making smart choices on the water is a core part of taking the sport safely and seriously.

The Sober Skipper: Why It Matters video series is part of a national campaign to eliminate Boating Under the Influence (BUI) by amplifying real voices from the boating community. Each video highlights the role that individual responsibility, preparation and awareness play in preventing accidents. The campaign is especially focused on reaching men ages 24–50, those most at risk for BUI-related incidents according to U.S. Coast Guard data.

As more boaters hit the water this summer, the Sea Tow Foundation™ encourages everyone to revisit the basics: check your gear, wear a properly fitting life jacket and always have a designated Sober Skipper at the helm.

Click here to watch the Sober Skipper: Why It Matters video series: https://www.boatingsafety.com/page/Why-It-Matters