Yes the oars do move, but good luck trying to get anywhere. This model is very prone to flipping, but it is the most cosmetically accurate version, complete with red and green tape for port and starboard oars, winged riggers, and a rudder that barely works, just like in real life!

To control the oars:

Z [VTOL up] brings the oars to the finish (end of the stroke)
X [VTOL down] brings the oars to the catch (beginning of the stroke)
Brake squares the blades (makes the oars perpendicular to the water)

How to row:
If you haven't flipped by now, what you want to do is hold X to bring it to the catch, then hold the Brake button to square the blade, then hold Z while holding Brake to do a stroke. It is best to let go of Brake right before the oar reaches the finish. Repeat many times to stroke. With this model I've gotten to a measly 4 mph before flipping. Hence this one is meant to be a model than an actual working boat. If it's speed you're after, check out my working model. It goes to a whopping 22 mph and is unflippable.