How can you use the longship to speed up ocean exploration?

The longship is one of the most efficient tools for ocean exploration in Valheim, offering speed, durability, and ample storage. To craft a longship, you will need 100 Iron Nails, 40 Fine Wood, 10 Deer Hide, and 40 Resin. These materials require progression through the game, as Iron Nails are crafted from Iron, which is found in the Swamp biome. Fine Wood is obtained from Birch and Oak trees, Deer Hide from deer, and Resin from Greydwarfs or by chopping down trees. Once crafted, the longship becomes your primary vessel for traversing vast ocean distances quickly.\n\nOne of the key advantages of the longship is its speed. It is significantly faster than the karve, the smaller ship available earlier in the game. This speed is crucial for speedrunning, as it allows you to cover large distances in a shorter amount of time. Additionally, the longship has a larger storage capacity, which is essential for carrying resources like ore, food, and other materials needed for exploration and base-building. This makes it ideal for long voyages where you may not have immediate access to crafting stations or storage.\n\nTo maximize the longship''s potential, plan your ocean exploration routes carefully. Use the map to mark key locations such as biomes, trader spawns, and boss altars. The longship''s speed allows you to quickly scout these areas, especially when searching for the Moder boss altar in the Mountains biome or the Plains biome for endgame resources. Always bring a portal with you to establish a quick return point, as the longship cannot be teleported. This ensures you can return to your base without losing progress.\n\nA common challenge when using the longship is dealing with sea serpents, which can damage or destroy your ship. To mitigate this, always carry a strong weapon like the Draugr Fang bow or a melee weapon such as the Blackmetal Sword. Additionally, keep an eye on the weather, as storms increase the likelihood of encountering serpents. If a serpent attacks, try to outrun it using the longship''s speed or fight it off while maintaining control of the ship. Having a backup karve or materials to repair the longship is also advisable.\n\nAnother tip for speedrunning with the longship is to optimize your inventory before setting sail. Bring essential items like food, weapons, and tools, but avoid overloading your inventory with unnecessary items. This ensures you have space for valuable resources you may find during exploration. Additionally, consider bringing a pickaxe and a cultivator to gather resources like Flint or plant seeds in new biomes. This preparation saves time and allows you to make the most of your voyages.\n\nFinally, always be mindful of the longship''s durability. While it is more durable than the karve, it can still take damage from rocks, serpents, or rough seas. Repair it regularly using a workbench placed near the shore. If you are far from your base, consider building a small outpost with a workbench and portal to facilitate repairs and resource management. This strategy ensures your longship remains in top condition for extended exploration.\n\nIn summary, the longship is an invaluable tool for speedrunning ocean exploration in Valheim. Its speed, storage capacity, and durability make it the best choice for covering large distances and gathering resources efficiently. By planning your routes, preparing for challenges, and maintaining your ship, you can maximize its potential and achieve your exploration goals quickly.