What are the advantages of using a raft over other ships early in the game?

The raft is the first watercraft available to players in Valheim, and it serves as a crucial tool for early exploration and resource gathering. While it may seem basic compared to later ships like the Karve or Longship, the raft has several advantages that make it invaluable in the early game. Crafting a raft requires only 20 Wood, 6 Leather Scraps, and 6 Resin, all of which are easily obtainable in the Meadows biome. This low resource cost makes it accessible even for new players who are still building their first base and gathering materials.\n\nOne of the primary advantages of the raft is its simplicity. Unlike larger ships, the raft does not require a workbench or advanced tools to build. This means you can construct it almost anywhere near water, making it ideal for quick escapes or exploring nearby islands. For example, if you find yourself stranded on a small island with no way to gather resources, you can quickly build a raft to return to the mainland. This flexibility is especially useful in the early game when you are still learning the map and may not have established a network of portals.\n\nAnother key advantage of the raft is its utility in shallow waters. While larger ships like the Karve and Longship require deeper water to navigate, the raft can sail in very shallow areas. This makes it perfect for exploring rivers, coastal areas, and small islands where other ships might get stuck. For instance, if you are exploring the Black Forest biome and need to cross a narrow river to reach a copper deposit, the raft is an excellent choice. Its shallow draft allows you to navigate tight spaces without worrying about running aground.\n\nDespite its slow speed, the raft is surprisingly durable. It can withstand attacks from sea creatures like Leeches and Serpents better than you might expect, especially if you are careful to avoid direct confrontations. If you are traveling in the Ocean biome and encounter a Serpent, you can often outmaneuver it by sailing close to the shore or using the raft''s small size to your advantage. Additionally, the raft''s low profile makes it harder for enemies to target you, giving you a slight edge in dangerous waters.\n\nFor new players, the raft is an excellent way to learn the basics of sailing in Valheim. It introduces key mechanics like wind direction, steering, and anchoring, which are essential for mastering larger ships later in the game. For example, you can practice tacking against the wind by adjusting your sail angle, a skill that will serve you well when piloting faster ships. The raft also teaches you the importance of planning your routes, as its slow speed means you need to account for wind patterns and potential hazards.\n\nExperienced players can also find uses for the raft, particularly in niche situations. For instance, if you are building a coastal base and need to transport small amounts of resources across short distances, the raft is a quick and efficient option. It can also serve as a temporary escape vehicle if your primary ship is destroyed or unavailable. In multiplayer games, rafts can be used as decoys or distractions during PvP encounters, adding a layer of strategy to naval combat.\n\nTo maximize the raft''s potential, always carry a Hammer and enough materials to repair it during long journeys. Repairing a raft costs only Wood, which is abundant in most biomes. Additionally, consider building a small dock or shelter near your raft''s anchor point to protect it from storms and enemies. If you are venturing into dangerous waters, bring a bow and arrows to fend off hostile creatures from a distance.\n\nIn summary, the raft is a versatile and accessible tool that offers numerous advantages for both new and experienced players. Its low resource cost, shallow draft, and durability make it an excellent choice for early exploration and resource gathering. While it may not be as fast or powerful as later ships, the raft''s simplicity and utility ensure it remains a valuable asset throughout your Valheim journey.