What’s the best way to navigate the Ocean biome during storms?

Navigating the Ocean biome during storms in Valheim can be one of the most challenging aspects of the game, but with the right preparation and strategies, you can safely traverse these treacherous waters. The Ocean biome is vast and unpredictable, with storms causing high waves, reduced visibility, and increased danger from sea creatures like Serpents. To succeed, you need to understand the game mechanics, prepare your equipment, and adapt your sailing techniques.\n\nFirst, ensure you have the right ship for the journey. The Longship is the best option for ocean travel due to its durability, speed, and storage capacity. Crafting a Longship requires 100 Iron Nails, 40 Fine Wood, 10 Deer Hide, and 40 Ancient Bark. If you don’t have access to a Longship yet, the Karve is a decent alternative, but it’s less stable in rough waters. Always repair your ship before setting sail, as storms can cause significant damage over time.\n\nBefore heading into the Ocean biome, stock up on essential supplies. Bring plenty of food for stamina regeneration, such as Cooked Meat, Serpent Stew, or Honey. Stamina is crucial for managing your ship during storms, as you’ll need to adjust sails and steer frequently. Additionally, carry a stack of Wood and Resin to repair your ship mid-journey if necessary. A Portal is also highly recommended; place one at your base and carry materials to build another on distant shores for quick travel back.\n\nWhen a storm hits, the waves will become larger and more erratic, making it harder to control your ship. To navigate effectively, reduce your sail speed by pressing the S key (or equivalent on consoles) to lower the sail. This will give you more control and prevent your ship from capsizing in rough waves. Avoid sailing directly into the wind, as this will slow you down and make steering more difficult. Instead, angle your ship slightly to the side to maintain momentum.\n\nOne of the biggest threats during storms is the Serpent, a hostile sea creature that can attack your ship. If you encounter a Serpent, prioritize dealing with it immediately. Use a Finewood Bow with Fire or Poison arrows to deal significant damage from a distance. If the Serpent gets too close, switch to a melee weapon like the Abyssal Harpoon to pull it closer and finish it off. Defeating a Serpent yields valuable Serpent Meat and Scales, which can be used for crafting and cooking.\n\nVisibility is another challenge during storms. The rain and waves can make it hard to see landmarks or other dangers. To mitigate this, use the map frequently to track your position and plan your route. If you’re traveling to a specific destination, mark it on your map beforehand. Additionally, consider sailing during the day when visibility is slightly better, though storms can occur at any time.\n\nFinally, always be prepared for the unexpected. If your ship is damaged beyond repair or you’re stranded in the middle of the ocean, having a backup plan is essential. Carry materials to build a Workbench and a Raft as a last resort. While a Raft is slow and vulnerable, it can save you in an emergency. Alternatively, use the Portal system to return to safety and regroup.\n\nIn summary, navigating the Ocean biome during storms requires preparation, skill, and adaptability. Equip a Longship, stock up on supplies, and use smart sailing techniques to handle rough waves. Be ready to face Serpents and use your map to stay on course. With these strategies, you’ll be able to conquer the stormy seas and explore the farthest reaches of Valheim’s world.