The churning sea dominates the composition, a tumultuous backdrop to the small boat struggling against the waves. The artist masterfully uses broad, energetic brushstrokes to convey the force of the storm and the desperation of the figures within. Light and shadow dance across the scene, highlighting the figures' expressions of fear and anguish; it's a visual symphony of chaos and vulnerability. The composition pulls you in, making you feel the chill of the sea spray and the terror of being caught in a tempest.

The figures are rendered with such dynamic movement; each one conveys a different aspect of terror. The boat, a vessel of faith and hope, is precariously balanced. The color palette consists of deep blues, greens, and browns, with flashes of light that emphasize the drama. The artist employs the techniques of Romanticism to evoke an emotional response, making you feel the full weight of the moment as if you were there in the boat, fighting for survival.