How do I avoid getting stuck on rocks or shallow waters with a raft?

Navigating a raft in Valheim can be tricky, especially when dealing with rocks or shallow waters. The raft is the first watercraft you can craft, requiring 20 Wood, 6 Leather Scraps, and 6 Resin. While it’s a great early-game tool for exploration, its slow speed and low maneuverability make it prone to getting stuck. To avoid this, you need to understand the game’s water mechanics and plan your routes carefully.\n\nFirst, always scout your path before setting sail. Use the map to identify shallow areas, such as coastlines or narrow passages between islands. Shallow waters are often marked by lighter blue on the map, while deeper waters appear darker. Avoid these shallow zones, as they are the most common places where rafts get stuck. If you must navigate near the shore, keep a safe distance to avoid hidden rocks or sandbars.\n\nWhen sailing, use the wind to your advantage. The raft moves faster when the wind is at your back, indicated by the white arrow on the minimap. If the wind is against you, consider waiting for it to change direction or paddling manually. Paddling is slower but gives you more control, which is crucial when navigating tight spaces or avoiding obstacles. To paddle, press the forward movement key (default: W) without raising the sail.\n\nIf you do get stuck, don’t panic. First, try reversing by pressing the backward movement key (default: S). If that doesn’t work, jump off the raft and push it manually. Swimming behind the raft and pressing the interact key (default: E) will allow you to push it free. Be cautious of stamina, as swimming drains it quickly. If you’re in a dangerous biome like the Black Forest or Plains, ensure you’re not attacked by enemies while swimming.\n\nAnother tip is to avoid overloading your raft. While rafts don’t have a weight limit, carrying too much loot can slow you down mentally, making it harder to react to obstacles. Keep your inventory organized and prioritize essential items. If you’re transporting heavy resources like ore or stone, consider making multiple trips or upgrading to a Karve or Longship later in the game.\n\nFinally, practice makes perfect. Spend time sailing in safe biomes like the Meadows to get a feel for the raft’s handling. Experiment with different angles and speeds to see how the raft responds. Over time, you’ll develop a better sense of how to navigate tricky waters and avoid getting stuck.\n\nIn summary, avoiding rocks and shallow waters with a raft requires careful planning, understanding wind mechanics, and practicing your sailing skills. Always scout your route, use the wind to your advantage, and be prepared to push your raft free if necessary. With these tips, you’ll be able to explore Valheim’s vast oceans with confidence.