A calm, open body of water fills most of the frame under overcast daylight. In the center of the image, a sleek, narrow, bright red rowing shell (a four-person sweep boat) glides smoothly across the water. The boat is viewed from behind and slightly above.Four rowers sit in a single-file line facing backward toward the stern. Each rower holds two oars that extends out to the side of the boat; the white blades of the oars are just entering or leaving the water in mid-stroke, creating small splashes and ripples. There is no coxswain visible, suggesting this is a coxless four. The water around the boat is grayish-blue and gently rippled, with no land, other boats, or horizon visible in the frame.