A very important feature is that of self-righting.  This is obtained by having air chambers of large size, both at the bow and stern, placed high above the centre of gravity.  As the boat must be well ballasted, she must have limited breadth of beam, as also limited side buoyancy. By being properly ballasted, a boat can pass either through or over a sea without being driven astern.  The raised air chambers prevent the sea breaking over her at the bow or stern; while, if she dips into the sea, she instantly rises again.  By having a limited beam, she gains in speed, although she loses in stability; but, at the same time, if upset, she is much more speedily righted; while shorter oars are required, and fewer men to work them.