When executing the ship's routine according to the POD, what must be included?

The correct answer focuses on the components of the ship's routine as outlined in the Planning and Operations Document (POD). General announcements and flag displays are essential elements of communicating important information and signaling to other vessels or maritime organizations.

In a naval context, flag displays convey critical information regarding the ship's status, intentions, or operational conditions. General announcements ensure that all crew members are aware of activities that may affect routine operations, safety protocols, or any changes in schedules. This communication is vital for maintaining effective operations, fostering a cohesive working environment, and ensuring the safety of personnel on board.

Other components like changing watch rotations, daily maintenance checks, and crew briefings, while important for the overall efficiency and readiness of the ship, do not directly fall under the routine as outlined by the POD. Instead, they represent specific operational or logistical practices rather than a holistic element of the standard ship's routine that encompasses communication protocols and visual signaling methods.