What’s the safest route to take when crossing the Ocean to reach the Ashlands?

Crossing the Ocean to reach the Ashlands in Valheim is a challenging but rewarding endeavor. The Ashlands biome is located far to the south of the map, and the journey requires careful preparation, navigation, and strategy. To ensure a safe crossing, you must consider the dangers of the Ocean biome, including storms, serpents, and the risk of getting lost. This guide will walk you through the safest route and provide actionable tips to survive the journey.\n\nFirst, preparation is key. Before setting sail, ensure you have a fully upgraded Longship, as it offers the best speed, durability, and storage capacity for long voyages. Crafting a Longship requires 100 Iron Nails, 40 Fine Wood, 40 Deer Hide, and 10 Bronze Nails. Stock your ship with essential supplies, including food (e.g., Cooked Meat, Serpent Stew, and Honey), healing meads, and materials for repairs (e.g., Wood and Resin). Bring a Karve or Raft as a backup in case your Longship is destroyed.\n\nNext, plan your route carefully. Use the in-game map to mark your starting point and the approximate location of the Ashlands. The Ashlands are always found in the southernmost part of the map, so head directly south. However, avoid sailing in a straight line, as this increases the risk of encountering serpents and storms. Instead, follow the coastline of nearby islands or landmasses to minimize time spent in open water. This also provides opportunities to stop and repair your ship if needed.\n\nDuring the journey, be vigilant for serpents, which are aggressive sea creatures that can quickly destroy your ship. If you encounter a serpent, use a bow with Fire or Poison arrows to deal damage from a distance. Alternatively, you can outrun serpents by sailing with the wind at your back. Storms are another hazard, as they can damage your ship and make navigation difficult. To mitigate this, avoid sailing during storms if possible, and always keep an eye on the weather forecast using the in-game clock.\n\nNavigation is crucial when crossing the Ocean. Use the sun and stars to orient yourself, as they provide reliable directional cues. The sun rises in the east and sets in the west, while the North Star (a bright, stationary star) indicates north. If you lose your bearings, stop at a nearby island to regain your sense of direction. Additionally, consider crafting a Vegvisir (a directional marker) to mark your path and ensure you can retrace your steps if necessary.\n\nOnce you reach the Ashlands, be prepared for the biome''s unique challenges. The Ashlands are characterized by volcanic terrain, extreme heat, and hostile creatures like Surtlings. To survive, equip fire-resistant gear, such as the Wolf Armor set, and bring plenty of healing items. Avoid lingering in the Ashlands for too long, as the heat can quickly drain your health. Instead, focus on gathering resources like Flametal and Ashwood, which are essential for crafting advanced items.\n\nIn summary, the safest route to the Ashlands involves thorough preparation, careful navigation, and strategic planning. Use a Longship, follow coastlines, and avoid open water when possible. Be ready to face serpents and storms, and use the sun and stars to guide your journey. Once you arrive, equip fire-resistant gear and gather resources efficiently. With these tips, you can safely cross the Ocean and conquer the Ashlands.\n\nPractical Tip: Always carry a Portal with you to establish a quick return route. This allows you to transport resources back to your base without risking another long voyage.