Can I use a raft to transport tamed animals between islands?

Transporting tamed animals between islands in Valheim is possible using a raft, but it requires careful planning and execution. Rafts are the most basic watercraft in the game, crafted using 20 Wood, 6 Leather Scraps, and 6 Resin. While they are slow and not ideal for long-distance travel, they can be used effectively for short trips between nearby islands. However, transporting animals adds complexity due to their behavior and the limitations of the raft.\n\nTo begin, you must first tame the animal you wish to transport. Boars are the most common tamed animals in Valheim, and they require a pen, food (such as mushrooms or carrots), and patience to tame. Once tamed, you need to guide the animal onto the raft. This can be tricky, as animals will not follow you onto the raft automatically. You must push or lure them onto the raft using food or by carefully herding them.\n\nOnce the animal is on the raft, you must ensure it stays on board during the journey. Animals can fall off if the raft hits waves or rocks, so it’s crucial to avoid rough waters and sharp turns. Additionally, animals may wander around the raft, increasing the risk of them falling overboard. To mitigate this, you can build a small enclosure on the raft using Wood or other building materials. This enclosure will keep the animal contained and reduce the risk of losing it during transit.\n\nWhen sailing, stick to calm waters and avoid biomes like the Ocean or Swamp, where waves and hostile creatures can pose a threat. If you encounter a serpent or other dangers, prioritize protecting the raft and the animal. Serpents can destroy the raft, leaving you stranded in the water. Always carry a weapon and be prepared to defend yourself and your cargo.\n\nA practical example of this process would be transporting a tamed boar from the Meadows to a nearby island to establish a new base. First, build a pen on the raft using Wood to secure the boar. Then, carefully guide the boar onto the raft and into the pen. Once secured, sail slowly and steadily to the destination, avoiding any obstacles or hostile creatures. Upon arrival, guide the boar off the raft and into a new pen on the island.\n\nFor experienced players, consider upgrading to a Karve or Longship for transporting animals. These vessels are faster, more durable, and provide more space for building enclosures. However, if you’re early in the game and only have access to a raft, the above method will suffice for short distances.\n\nIn summary, transporting tamed animals on a raft is possible but requires preparation and caution. Build an enclosure on the raft to secure the animal, avoid dangerous biomes, and sail carefully to ensure a safe journey. With these steps, you can successfully move your tamed animals between islands and expand your Viking empire.