The function of the quotation marks in this sentence is to indicate that the word "two" is being used in a specific way. In this context, "two" is likely being emphasized or pointed out as significant because it is related to the balance of the boat. The quotation marks draw attention to the word, suggesting that it is being used in a non-literal or specialized sense. By enclosing "two" in quotation marks, the writer or speaker is indicating that it should be understood as a concept or measurement rather than a simple number.
