Gower observed that conventional vessels were box-like and needed much movement of the rudder from side to side to preserve a steady course. When running fast, they often suffered total loss of steerage because the water failed "to close over the rudder" and left it in a "mere hole or vacuum in the water" (what we now call "cavitation"). He appreciated too that drag is proportionate to the wetted surface of the hull, and that a long narrow hull with a deep narrow keel makes for speed. In the case of the "Transit", the tapering lines also allowed the rudder to hang abaft the general spread of the bottom. This "enlivened" the steering; yet the rudder was not vulnerable to damage when the vessel grounded. Except when she was to put about, a spoke of the helm either way could steer the "Transit".