How do you build a functional dock near your shelter in Valheim?

Building a functional dock near your shelter in Valheim is a great way to enhance your base''s utility, especially if you''re near water. A dock allows you to safely store and access boats, making exploration and resource gathering more efficient. To start, you''ll need to gather basic materials like wood and stone, which are essential for constructing the dock and its supporting structures.\n\nFirst, choose a suitable location near your shelter that has easy access to water. Ideally, this should be in a Meadow biome, as it''s the safest starting area. If you''re in a Black Forest or Swamp biome, ensure you''ve cleared the area of enemies. Use your hammer to open the building menu and select the wooden floor pieces. Start by placing a foundation of wooden floors extending into the water. Make sure the foundation is stable by checking for blue highlights, which indicate proper support.\n\nNext, build support beams or pillars beneath the wooden floors to ensure the dock doesn''t collapse. Use core wood or regular wood logs for this purpose. Core wood, obtained from pine trees in the Black Forest, provides stronger support and is ideal for larger docks. If you''re building in deeper water, you may need to extend the pillars downward until they touch the seabed. This ensures the dock remains stable even during storms or high tides.\n\nOnce the foundation is secure, add railings or walls to the sides of the dock to prevent accidental falls. You can also add a roof or canopy for aesthetic purposes, though this isn''t necessary for functionality. If you plan to store a boat, leave enough space at the end of the dock for the boat to fit comfortably. For example, a Karve requires at least 4x4 tiles of space, while a Longship needs 6x6 tiles.\n\nTo make the dock more functional, consider adding a workbench nearby. This allows you to repair your boat without having to return to your main shelter. Place the workbench under a roof or canopy to protect it from rain, which can degrade its durability over time. Additionally, you can add chests to store boat-related items like nails, resin, or extra wood.\n\nOne common challenge is dealing with waves or uneven terrain. If the water is too shallow, your boat may get stuck. To solve this, use the hoe to level the seabed near the dock. This ensures your boat can enter and exit smoothly. If waves are an issue, build the dock slightly higher above the waterline to prevent it from being submerged during storms.\n\nFinally, consider adding lighting to your dock for nighttime use. Torches or standing braziers not only provide light but also add a cozy Viking aesthetic. If you''re in a dangerous biome like the Swamp or Plains, lighting can help deter enemies from approaching your dock.\n\nIn summary, building a functional dock requires careful planning, stable foundations, and attention to detail. By following these steps, you can create a dock that enhances your base''s functionality and makes sailing in Valheim a breeze. Happy building, Viking!