What might happen if a vessel is not maintained for stability?

If a vessel is not maintained for stability, it could potentially experience capsizing risks. Stability is crucial for a vessel's performance and safety; it refers to the ship’s ability to return to an upright position after being tilted by external forces, such as waves or wind. When maintenance routines such as checking ballast systems, hull integrity, and weight distribution are neglected, the vessel may not perform as expected in maintaining its natural equilibrium.

This lack of maintenance can lead to improper weight distribution, the accumulation of water in various compartments, or other factors that decrease the vessel's metacentric height, ultimately increasing the likelihood of capsizing. Inadequate stability mechanisms exacerbate the risk during rough weather or operational maneuvers, potentially resulting in dangerous situations for the crew and vessel.

The other options suggest improved efficiency, extended service life, or no performance impacts, which do not accurately reflect the consequences of neglecting vessel stability. Stability is fundamental to overall maritime safety and performance; therefore, proper maintenance is essential.