What is the best way to defend myself from enemies while on a raft?

Defending yourself from enemies while on a raft in Valheim requires preparation, awareness, and strategic use of game mechanics. Rafts are one of the earliest forms of transportation in the game, but they are slow and leave you vulnerable to attacks from sea creatures like Serpents or land-based enemies if you venture too close to shore. To survive, you need to understand the threats and how to counter them effectively.\n\nFirst, always be aware of your surroundings. When sailing, keep an eye on the horizon for Serpents, which are large sea creatures that can destroy your raft if not dealt with quickly. Serpents typically spawn in the Ocean biome during storms or at night, so avoid sailing during these times if possible. If you encounter a Serpent, use a bow and arrows to attack it from a distance. Crafting a Finewood Bow and Flinthead Arrows early in the game will give you a reliable way to fend off these threats.\n\nAnother key strategy is to avoid sailing too close to shorelines, especially in hostile biomes like the Black Forest or Swamp. Enemies such as Greydwarfs, Skeletons, or Leeches can attack you if you are within their range. If you must sail near these areas, keep your raft moving and maintain a safe distance. If enemies do attack, use your bow to pick them off before they can damage your raft or you.\n\nCrafting and equipping the right gear is essential for survival. Before setting sail, ensure you have a full set of armor, such as Leather or Troll Hide, to increase your health and defense. Additionally, bring healing items like Cooked Meat or Berries to recover from any damage you might take. If you have access to the Forge, consider crafting a Bronze Atgeir or Spear for close-quarters combat in case enemies board your raft.\n\nIf you are traveling with friends, coordinate your efforts to defend the raft. Assign one person to steer while others focus on attacking enemies. This teamwork can make a significant difference, especially when facing multiple threats at once. For solo players, prioritize mobility and ranged attacks to keep enemies at bay.\n\nFinally, consider upgrading your raft to a Karve or Longship as soon as possible. These vessels are faster, more durable, and have storage space for supplies. The Karve requires Bronze Nails, Fine Wood, and Deer Hide to craft, while the Longship requires Iron Nails, Fine Wood, and Deer Hide. Both ships are better suited for long voyages and can withstand more damage than a basic raft.\n\nIn summary, defending yourself on a raft in Valheim involves staying alert, using ranged weapons, avoiding dangerous areas, and upgrading your vessel when possible. By following these steps, you can navigate the seas safely and focus on exploring the vast world of Valheim.