What are the best biomes to explore first with a raft?

Exploring Valheim''s vast world with a raft is an exciting but challenging endeavor, especially for new players. The raft is the first watercraft you can craft, requiring 20 Wood, 6 Leather Scraps, and 10 Resin. While it is slow and vulnerable, it is essential for early exploration and resource gathering. The best biomes to explore first with a raft are the Meadows, Black Forest, and nearby coastal areas. These biomes are relatively safe and provide valuable resources for progression.\n\nStarting in the Meadows biome is ideal for new players. This biome is the safest, with minimal hostile creatures like Greylings and Boars. Use your raft to explore the coastline, as it often contains Burial Chambers, abandoned structures, and Beehives. These locations yield valuable items like Core Wood, Flint, and Honey, which are crucial for crafting better tools and food. Additionally, coastal exploration in the Meadows can help you locate nearby Black Forest biomes, which are rich in Copper and Tin.\n\nThe Black Forest biome is the next logical step for raft exploration. While it is more dangerous than the Meadows, it offers essential resources like Copper Ore, Tin Ore, and Fine Wood. Use your raft to scout the coastline for Crypts and Troll Caves, which are often near water. Be cautious of Trolls and Greydwarfs, as they can easily destroy your raft if you venture too close to shore. To mitigate this, park your raft a safe distance from land and swim or use a temporary dock made of Wooden Beams.\n\nWhen exploring with a raft, always prepare for the unexpected. Carry a Hammer, Workbench, and extra Wood to repair your raft if it takes damage. Storms and Serpents are rare but can pose a threat, so avoid venturing too far into the ocean early on. Stick to coastal areas and islands, as they are safer and often contain valuable resources. For example, small islands in the Meadows or Black Forest may have Beehives, Mushrooms, or even abandoned structures with Chests.\n\nOne common challenge is navigating shallow waters or getting stuck on rocks. To avoid this, always keep an eye on the water depth and steer carefully. If your raft gets stuck, use your Hammer to dismantle it and rebuild it in deeper water. Additionally, consider crafting a Karve as soon as possible, as it is faster, more durable, and has storage space for transporting resources.\n\nIn summary, the best biomes to explore first with a raft are the Meadows and Black Forest. These biomes provide essential resources and are relatively safe for early-game players. Always prepare for potential dangers, repair your raft regularly, and avoid venturing too far into the ocean. By following these tips, you can make the most of your raft and set a strong foundation for your Valheim adventure.\n\nPractical tips: Always carry a Hammer and extra Wood for repairs, avoid deep ocean exploration early on, and prioritize crafting a Karve for better mobility and storage. Use your raft to scout coastal areas and small islands, as they often contain valuable resources and hidden treasures.