Abstract: A pair of rowing devices is installed on respective port (left) and starboard (right) sides of a watercraft such as a rowboat, kayak or canoe. Unlike in conventional rowing the operator sits forward facing the bow (front). By pulling the inboard portion of the oars towards the stern (back) while the blade is in the water, the watercraft is propelled forward. The system described herein reverses the direction of the blades motion through the water using a gearbox. The gearbox also allows for feathering of the paddles, that is, changing the angle of the paddle in relation to the water. This is done by turning the handle throughout the movement of the oars as done with traditional oars.