What is the best way to avoid Sea Serpents while sailing near the Ashlands?

Sea Serpents are one of the most dangerous threats in Valheim, especially when sailing near the Ashlands. These aggressive creatures can quickly destroy your ship and leave you stranded in hostile waters. To avoid Sea Serpents while sailing near the Ashlands, you need to understand their behavior, prepare your ship, and use strategic sailing techniques.\n\nFirst, it’s important to know that Sea Serpents spawn in Ocean biomes, particularly during storms or at night. The Ashlands biome, located in the far south, is surrounded by vast Ocean areas, making it a hotspot for these creatures. To minimize encounters, avoid sailing during storms or at night. Instead, plan your voyages during clear weather and daylight hours. This reduces the chances of triggering a Sea Serpent spawn.\n\nNext, ensure your ship is well-prepared for potential encounters. The Longship is the best option for sailing near the Ashlands due to its durability and speed. Before setting sail, repair your ship fully and stock up on materials like wood and resin for quick repairs mid-voyage. Additionally, bring a Finewood Bow and a stack of arrows, such as Flinthead or Obsidian, to defend yourself if a Sea Serpent appears. Having a strong weapon like the Draugr Fang bow can make a significant difference in fending off these creatures.\n\nWhen sailing, stay close to the coastline of the Ashlands whenever possible. Sea Serpents are less likely to spawn in shallow waters, so hugging the shore can help you avoid them. However, be cautious of the Ashlands’ environmental hazards, such as fire geysers and Surtlings. If you must venture into deeper waters, keep your ship moving at full speed. Sea Serpents are slower than a Longship at full sail, so maintaining speed can help you outrun them.\n\nIf a Sea Serpent does attack, remain calm and focus on evasive maneuvers. Turn your ship away from the creature and sail toward shallow water or land. Sea Serpents cannot follow you into shallow areas, so this is an effective way to escape. If you’re unable to reach shallow water, use your bow to attack the Sea Serpent from a distance. Aim for its head to deal maximum damage. Once defeated, the Sea Serpent will drop valuable resources like Serpent Meat and Serpent Scales, which are worth the effort if you’re well-prepared.\n\nFor new players, it’s essential to practice sailing in safer areas before venturing near the Ashlands. Familiarize yourself with ship controls and combat mechanics in calmer waters. Experienced Vikings should consider bringing a friend or two for added safety. Multiplayer sailing allows one player to steer while others defend the ship, making it easier to handle Sea Serpent encounters.\n\nFinally, always have a backup plan. Carry portal materials like Fine Wood and Surtling Cores to set up an emergency portal near the Ashlands. This allows you to quickly return to your base if your ship is destroyed or if you need to resupply. By combining these strategies, you can safely navigate the waters near the Ashlands and avoid the dangers posed by Sea Serpents.