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

Defending a raft in Valheim is crucial for safe exploration, especially in hostile biomes like the Black Forest or Ocean. Rafts are slow and vulnerable, making them easy targets for enemies like Greylings, Neck, or even Sea Serpents. To protect your raft, you must understand the game mechanics and plan accordingly.\n\nFirst, always be aware of your surroundings. Avoid sailing too close to shorelines in dangerous biomes, as enemies can swim out to attack. If you must navigate near land, keep your raft moving at full speed to minimize the chance of being boarded. Use the wind to your advantage by adjusting your sail direction to maximize speed.\n\nCrafting a better boat, such as a Karve or Longship, is a long-term solution for better defense and speed. However, if you''re stuck with a raft, consider building a small defensive structure on it. While you can''t place workbenches or other crafting stations on a raft, you can use wooden walls or fences to create barriers. These won''t stop all enemies but can slow them down, giving you time to fight back.\n\nAnother practical tip is to bring a bow and arrows. Ranged weapons are ideal for defending your raft, as they allow you to attack enemies from a distance. Stock up on basic arrows or craft fire arrows for extra damage. If a Sea Serpent attacks, aim for its head to deal maximum damage and force it to retreat.\n\nIf you''re exploring the Ocean biome, always be prepared for a Sea Serpent encounter. These creatures are fast and deadly, but they can be avoided by staying close to shorelines or sailing during the day when they are less active. If a Sea Serpent does attack, try to lure it toward land, where it will eventually retreat due to shallow water.\n\nFor new players, it''s essential to prioritize upgrading your gear before venturing into dangerous waters. Equip a shield and melee weapon like a spear or axe to defend against close-range attacks. Experienced Vikings can use advanced tactics, such as kiting enemies or using the environment to their advantage.\n\nFinally, always have an escape plan. If your raft is overwhelmed, jump off and swim to shore. Enemies will lose interest if you get far enough away, allowing you to regroup and repair your raft. Carry materials like wood and resin to make quick repairs if needed.\n\nIn summary, defending a raft in Valheim requires preparation, awareness, and quick thinking. Use ranged weapons, build barriers, and avoid dangerous areas whenever possible. With these strategies, you can safely explore the seas and survive enemy encounters.