What’s the best way to prepare for a long ocean voyage?

Preparing for a long ocean voyage in Valheim requires careful planning, resource gathering, and understanding of game mechanics. The ocean biome is vast and unpredictable, with dangers like serpents, storms, and the risk of getting lost. To ensure a successful voyage, you need the right ship, supplies, and strategies to handle challenges.\n\nFirst, you must craft a suitable ship. The Karve is a good starting option for early-game voyages, as it is faster and more maneuverable than the raft. However, for long-distance travel, the Longship is the best choice. It has more storage, durability, and speed, making it ideal for extended journeys. To build a Longship, you need 100 Iron Nails, 40 Fine Wood, 10 Deer Hide, and 40 Ancient Bark. Fine Wood can be obtained from birch and oak trees in the Meadows or Black Forest, while Ancient Bark comes from Ancient Trees in the Swamp biome. Iron Nails require Iron, which is mined from Muddy Scrap Piles in the Swamp.\n\nNext, stock up on essential supplies. Bring plenty of food, such as Cooked Meat, Carrot Soup, or Serpent Stew, to maintain your health and stamina. Stamina is crucial for rowing and fighting off serpents. Additionally, pack materials for repairs, like Wood and Resin, as your ship will take damage from waves, serpents, or accidental collisions. A Portal is also highly recommended. Bring the materials to build one (20 Fine Wood, 2 Surtling Cores, and 10 Greydwarf Eyes) so you can establish a quick return point if needed.\n\nNavigation is another critical aspect. Before setting sail, mark your starting point on the map and plan your route. Use the in-game map to identify islands or biomes you want to explore. The wind direction affects your sailing speed, so position your sail accordingly. If the wind is against you, use the rudder to tack (zigzag) and make progress. Always keep an eye on the horizon for serpents or other threats.\n\nSerpents are one of the biggest dangers during ocean voyages. These sea creatures can deal significant damage to your ship and crew. To defend yourself, equip a bow and arrows or a melee weapon like the Abyssal Harpoon. If you encounter a serpent, try to kill it quickly to avoid prolonged damage to your ship. Alternatively, you can outrun it by sailing with the wind. Serpent meat and scales are valuable resources, so defeating them is worth the effort.\n\nStorms can also pose a challenge. During a storm, waves become larger, and visibility decreases. If you find yourself in a storm, reduce your sail to half or full to maintain control. Avoid sailing too close to rocks or shorelines, as the waves can push you into dangerous areas. If the storm is too severe, consider waiting it out by anchoring near a safe island.\n\nFinally, always have a backup plan. If your ship is destroyed, you may find yourself stranded in the ocean. To avoid this, carry materials to build a raft or another ship. Additionally, make sure to rest at a safe location before embarking on your journey. Rested buffs increase your stamina regeneration, which is vital for long voyages.\n\nIn summary, preparing for a long ocean voyage in Valheim involves crafting the right ship, gathering supplies, planning your route, and being ready for dangers like serpents and storms. By following these steps, you can explore the vast ocean biome safely and efficiently. Happy sailing, Viking!