What is the best way to transport tamed animals by ship?

Transporting tamed animals by ship in Valheim is a challenging but rewarding task that requires careful planning and execution. Tamed animals, such as boars, wolves, and lox, are valuable resources for food, materials, and companionship, but moving them across the map can be tricky due to their AI behavior and the dangers of the open sea. Here’s a detailed guide to help you transport your tamed animals safely and efficiently.\n\nFirst, you’ll need to prepare a suitable ship. The Longship is the best option for transporting animals due to its large deck space and durability. Crafting a Longship requires 100 Iron Nails, 40 Fine Wood, 10 Deer Hide, and 40 Ancient Bark. Ensure you have the necessary materials and a level 4 Workbench to build it. Smaller ships like the Karve can work for smaller animals, but the Longship is recommended for larger creatures like lox.\n\nNext, you’ll need to lead your tamed animals to the ship. Use a Harpoon to drag animals like boars and wolves, as it allows you to control their movement more precisely. Craft a Harpoon using 8 Fine Wood, 3 Leather Scraps, and 2 Bronze at a Forge. For lox, you can use a Lox Saddle to ride them directly to the ship. Be cautious of enemy attacks during this process, as animals can panic and run away if they take damage.\n\nOnce your animals are near the ship, you’ll need to get them on board. For smaller animals like boars and wolves, build a ramp using Wooden Beams or Stairs to guide them onto the deck. Place the ramp at a gentle incline to make it easier for the animals to climb. For lox, you may need to build a wider ramp or use a combination of ramps and platforms to accommodate their size. Ensure the ship is anchored close to the shore to minimize the distance the animals need to travel.\n\nAfter loading the animals onto the ship, secure them by building fences or walls around the deck. This prevents them from falling overboard during the voyage. Use Wooden Walls or Stake Walls to create a secure enclosure. Be mindful of the ship’s weight limit, as overloading it can cause instability and increase the risk of capsizing.\n\nDuring the voyage, avoid sailing through dangerous biomes like the Ocean or Plains, as Serpents and Deathsquitos can attack your ship and animals. Stick to safer routes and keep an eye on the weather, as storms can make sailing more hazardous. If you encounter a Serpent, use a Bow or Abyssal Harpoon to fend it off quickly.\n\nUpon reaching your destination, carefully unload the animals using the same ramp method. Lead them to their new enclosure and ensure it’s secure before releasing them. If you’re transporting animals to a new base, make sure the area is safe from predators and has adequate food sources.\n\nPractical tips for transporting animals include bringing extra materials for repairs, such as Wood and Resin, in case your ship takes damage. Always have a backup plan, such as a portal nearby, in case the voyage goes wrong. Finally, consider transporting animals during the day to avoid nighttime threats like Draugr and Skeletons.\n\nBy following these steps and preparing thoroughly, you can successfully transport your tamed animals across Valheim’s vast world. Whether you’re moving boars for a steady supply of meat or relocating lox for their strength, careful planning and execution will ensure a smooth journey.