How can players share boats and sailing responsibilities?

Sharing boats and sailing responsibilities in Valheim is a key aspect of multiplayer gameplay, especially when exploring distant biomes like the Ocean or Swamp. Boats are essential for transporting resources, discovering new lands, and coordinating with your Viking crew. To share boats effectively, players must understand the mechanics of boat ownership, navigation, and teamwork.\n\nFirst, players need to craft a boat. The most common early-game boat is the Raft, which requires 20 Wood, 6 Leather Scraps, and 6 Resin. For more advanced options, the Karve (30 Fine Wood, 10 Deer Hide, 20 Resin, 80 Bronze Nails) and the Longship (40 Iron Nails, 10 Deer Hide, 40 Fine Wood, 40 Ancient Bark) offer greater speed and storage capacity. Once crafted, the boat can be placed in water, and any player can interact with it.\n\nTo share a boat, the owner (the player who crafted it) must allow others to use it. By default, boats are locked to the owner, but this can be changed by interacting with the boat and selecting the ''Allow Everyone'' option. This ensures all players in the group can steer, adjust sails, and use the rudder. Communication is crucial here, as multiple players attempting to control the boat simultaneously can lead to confusion.\n\nWhen sailing, players can divide responsibilities to maximize efficiency. One player can take the helm, steering the boat and adjusting the sail speed (using the W and S keys). Another player can act as a lookout, using the map to guide the crew and spot potential threats like Serpents or Leviathans. A third player can manage inventory, ensuring resources like Wood for repairs or food for stamina are readily available.\n\nA common challenge is dealing with Serpents, which spawn in the Ocean biome during storms. To handle this, players should equip bows and arrows or harpoons to fend off the creature while the helmsman focuses on navigation. Additionally, always carry a Hammer and Wood to repair the boat mid-journey if it takes damage.\n\nFor long voyages, plan your route carefully. Use the map to mark key locations like islands, biomes, or resource-rich areas. Assign roles before setting sail to avoid confusion. For example, one player can be responsible for marking the map, while another focuses on steering. This division of labor ensures smooth sailing and reduces the risk of getting lost or stranded.\n\nFinally, always prepare for emergencies. Carry extra food, weapons, and tools in case you encounter hostile creatures or need to make repairs. If the boat is destroyed, players can swim to shore or use a Portal (if one is available) to regroup and craft a new boat. By working together and leveraging each player''s strengths, your Viking crew can conquer the seas and explore Valheim''s vast world with ease.\n\nPractical Tip: Always assign a dedicated navigator to monitor the map and guide the crew. This prevents unnecessary detours and ensures you reach your destination efficiently.