How do I use a raft to farm resources from the ocean biome?

Using a raft to farm resources in the ocean biome in Valheim is a practical way to gather valuable materials like Chitin, fish, and even rare items like Leviathan drops. To begin, you must first craft a raft, which requires 20 Wood, 6 Leather Scraps, and 6 Resin. These materials are relatively easy to obtain early in the game, making the raft an accessible option for new players. Once crafted, the raft can be deployed in any body of water, including rivers, lakes, and the ocean.\n\nTo effectively farm resources in the ocean biome, you need to understand the mechanics of sailing and resource gathering. The ocean biome is vast and contains unique resources like Chitin, which is dropped by the giant sea creatures called Leviathans. These creatures appear as large, barnacle-covered rocks and can be harvested using a pickaxe. However, Leviathans are rare and will submerge if you stay on them for too long, so you must act quickly. Additionally, the ocean biome is home to fish, which can be caught using a fishing rod and bait.\n\nWhen sailing, it’s important to be cautious of the Serpents, aggressive sea creatures that can attack your raft. Serpents are dangerous and can destroy your raft if you’re not prepared. To mitigate this risk, always carry materials to repair your raft (Wood) and consider bringing a weapon like a bow or spear to defend yourself. If you encounter a Serpent, try to outmaneuver it by sailing away quickly or use ranged attacks to defeat it before it damages your raft.\n\nTo maximize your resource farming efficiency, plan your route carefully. Start by exploring the coastline of your starting island to locate nearby ocean biomes. Once you’ve identified a promising area, sail out and look for Leviathans. When you spot one, approach it carefully and anchor your raft nearby. Use your pickaxe to harvest Chitin from the barnacles on its back. Be mindful of the Leviathan’s movements, as it will eventually submerge, so prioritize gathering Chitin quickly.\n\nFishing in the ocean biome is another valuable activity. To fish, you’ll need a fishing rod, which can be purchased from Haldor the merchant in the Black Forest biome, and bait, which is crafted using 1 Bug and 1 Resin. Once equipped, cast your line into the water and wait for a fish to bite. Reel it in carefully to avoid breaking the line. Fish can be cooked for food or used in recipes, making them a versatile resource.\n\nOne common challenge when farming resources in the ocean biome is navigating storms. Storms can make sailing difficult and increase the risk of capsizing or losing your raft. To avoid this, check the weather before setting out and avoid sailing during storms if possible. If you’re caught in a storm, stay close to the shore and use your raft’s rudder to maintain control. Additionally, always carry a portal kit with you to quickly return to your base if needed.\n\nIn summary, using a raft to farm resources in the ocean biome is a rewarding but challenging endeavor. Craft a raft, gather essential tools like a pickaxe and fishing rod, and plan your route carefully. Be prepared to face Serpents and navigate storms, and always prioritize safety by carrying repair materials and a portal kit. With these strategies, you can efficiently gather Chitin, fish, and other valuable resources from the ocean biome.\n\nPractical tips: Always carry extra Wood for repairs, use a bow to defend against Serpents, and set up a portal near the coast for quick access to the ocean biome. Additionally, consider upgrading to a Karve or Longship for better speed and durability as you progress in the game.