How do you defend your Longship from enemy raids while sailing?

Defending your Longship in Valheim while sailing is crucial to ensure safe voyages across the dangerous seas. The Longship is the fastest and most durable ship in the game, but it is not immune to enemy attacks. To protect your vessel, you must understand the game mechanics, prepare adequately, and employ strategic tactics during your journey.\n\nFirst, always ensure your Longship is fully repaired before setting sail. Use a Workbench near the shore to repair any damage. This ensures your ship has maximum durability, which is essential when facing enemy raids. Additionally, stock up on essential items like food, weapons, and arrows. Food boosts your health and stamina, while weapons and arrows allow you to fight off enemies effectively.\n\nEnemy raids while sailing primarily come from Sea Serpents, which are large, aggressive creatures found in the Ocean biome. These creatures can deal significant damage to your Longship if not handled properly. To defend against Sea Serpents, equip a powerful bow like the Draugr Fang and stock up on high-quality arrows such as Obsidian or Needle arrows. These weapons allow you to attack from a distance, minimizing the risk of your ship taking damage.\n\nWhen a Sea Serpent attacks, immediately slow down or stop your Longship to maintain control. Use the bow to target the creature''s head, as this deals the most damage. If the Sea Serpent gets too close, switch to a melee weapon like the Blackmetal Sword or Atgeir to fend it off. Be cautious, as melee combat can be risky on a moving ship. Always prioritize your safety and the ship''s integrity.\n\nAnother effective strategy is to sail during the day and avoid the Ocean biome at night. Sea Serpents are more aggressive and spawn more frequently in the dark. If you must sail at night, stay close to the shore or islands where you can quickly dock and regroup if needed. This reduces the chances of being overwhelmed by multiple enemies.\n\nFor added protection, consider bringing a friend or two on your voyage. Multiplayer allows players to divide tasks, such as steering the ship and defending against enemies. This teamwork significantly increases your chances of surviving enemy raids. If playing solo, practice your combat skills and learn the attack patterns of Sea Serpents to improve your efficiency in battle.\n\nLastly, always have a backup plan. If your Longship is severely damaged, quickly dock at the nearest shore and repair it using a Workbench. Carry extra materials like Fine Wood and Iron Nails in your inventory to make repairs on the go. This ensures you can continue your journey without losing progress.\n\nIn summary, defending your Longship requires preparation, strategic combat, and situational awareness. Equip powerful weapons, sail during safer times, and always be ready to repair your ship. By following these steps, you can navigate Valheim''s treacherous waters with confidence and protect your Longship from enemy raids.