What can happen if the watch is not maintained properly?

The maintenance of proper watch standards is essential for several reasons, primarily related to safety and operational readiness. When the watch is not maintained correctly, it can lead to a potential breakdown in command. This situation may result in crew members not being fully aware of their responsibilities or the changing conditions around the vessel. Consequently, this breakdown can create increased risks, as critical safety protocols might not be followed, leading to accidents and emergencies.

For example, if a lookout is not properly alert or fails to communicate effectively about nearby vessels or navigational hazards, the risk of collision or grounding significantly increases. Additionally, if proper watch reports are not maintained, the decision-making process on board can become skewed or uninformed, compounding the risks.

In contrast, while the other options might seem positive, they are not directly connected to the consequences of poor watch maintenance. Increased vessel safety and improved communication, loss of sailing time, and better crew morale are outcomes typically associated with effective watchkeeping practices rather than the result of neglecting them. Thus, the potential breakdown in command coupled with the resulting increased risks and possibility of accidents accurately encapsulates the issues that arise from improper watch maintenance.