What’s the best way to build a dock for my longship in the Ocean biome?

Building a functional and aesthetically pleasing dock for your longship in Valheim''s Ocean biome requires careful planning and understanding of the game''s building mechanics. The Ocean biome is vast and often treacherous, so your dock must be both practical and durable to withstand storms and waves. Start by scouting a suitable location near your base or a coastal outpost. Look for a relatively flat shoreline with deep water close to the shore, as this ensures your longship won''t get stuck or damaged when docking.\n\nTo begin construction, gather essential materials like wood, core wood, and stone. Core wood is particularly important for building sturdy support beams, as it has higher durability than regular wood. Use the hammer tool to access the building menu and select the appropriate pieces. Start by placing vertical core wood beams into the ocean floor to act as the foundation. These beams should extend above the waterline to support the dock''s platform. Ensure the beams are evenly spaced and aligned to create a stable structure.\n\nNext, build the dock''s platform using wooden floor pieces. Connect the floor pieces to the vertical beams, ensuring the platform is level and extends far enough into the water to accommodate your longship. For added stability, reinforce the platform with horizontal core wood beams underneath. This prevents the dock from collapsing under the weight of the longship or during storms. If the water is too deep for vertical beams to reach the ocean floor, use stone pillars as an alternative foundation. Stone is heavier and more durable, making it ideal for deeper water.\n\nTo protect your dock from waves and storms, consider building a breakwater or seawall using stone walls or raised earth. This structure should surround the dock on three sides, leaving the front open for your longship to enter and exit. Breakwaters reduce the impact of waves, keeping your dock and longship safe. Additionally, you can add a roof or canopy using thatch or wooden roofing pieces to shield the dock from rain and provide a more finished look.\n\nLighting is another important aspect of dock design. Place torches or standing braziers along the edges of the dock to illuminate the area at night. This not only enhances the dock''s appearance but also helps you navigate safely in the dark. For a more advanced touch, use iron or bronze sconces for a durable and stylish lighting solution. Finally, add a small storage chest near the dock to store essential sailing supplies like nails, resin, and extra wood for repairs.\n\nOne common challenge when building docks is dealing with uneven terrain or shallow water. If the shoreline is too shallow, you can dig out the area using a pickaxe to create a deeper channel for your longship. Alternatively, build the dock further out into the ocean using stone pillars as supports. Another issue is the risk of enemy raids, especially from serpents or other sea creatures. To mitigate this, consider building a defensive perimeter around the dock using stake walls or raised earth. This provides additional protection for your longship and dock.\n\nIn summary, building a dock in the Ocean biome requires careful planning, sturdy materials, and attention to detail. Use core wood and stone for durability, reinforce the structure with horizontal beams, and protect it with breakwaters and lighting. Address common challenges like shallow water and enemy raids by digging channels and adding defensive structures. With these tips, you can create a functional and visually appealing dock that enhances your Valheim sailing experience.