What is the best way to use a raft for hunting sea creatures?

Using a raft for hunting sea creatures in Valheim can be both thrilling and challenging. The raft is one of the earliest watercraft you can build, requiring only 20 Wood, 6 Leather Scraps, and 6 Resin. While it is slow and not ideal for long voyages, it is perfect for coastal exploration and hunting smaller sea creatures like Serpents or gathering resources like fish and Chitin from Leviathans.\n\nTo begin, craft a raft at a Workbench near the water. Place it in shallow water and board it using the E key. The raft is controlled using the WASD keys, with spacebar to raise the sail and left shift to lower it. Keep in mind that the raft is slow, so patience is key when navigating. Always ensure you have enough stamina to row, as running out can leave you stranded.\n\nWhen hunting sea creatures, position your raft near their spawn areas. Serpents, for example, are commonly found in the Ocean biome during storms or at night. Approach them cautiously, as they can deal significant damage to your raft. Use a bow and arrows to attack from a distance, as melee weapons are risky and can damage your raft further. Keep a repair hammer and extra wood on hand to fix your raft mid-battle if needed.\n\nFor larger creatures like Leviathans, which are found in the Ocean biome, use the raft to approach their barnacle-covered backs. Dismount the raft carefully and mine the Chitin deposits with a pickaxe. Be quick, as Leviathans will submerge after a few hits, potentially leaving you stranded. Always have a backup plan, such as a portal or another raft nearby, in case you get separated from your main vessel.\n\nOne common challenge is managing stamina while hunting. To mitigate this, bring stamina-boosting foods like Honey or Cooked Meat. Additionally, avoid overextending yourself in deep waters, as swimming back to the raft can be dangerous if stamina runs low. Always keep an eye on your surroundings for other threats, such as hostile sea creatures or sudden storms.\n\nFinally, consider upgrading to a Karve or Longship as soon as possible. These vessels are faster, more durable, and better suited for hunting and exploration. However, if you are early in the game or lack resources, the raft remains a viable option for coastal hunting and resource gathering. Always plan your trips carefully, bring backup supplies, and stay alert to maximize your success.\n\nIn summary, the raft is a beginner-friendly tool for hunting sea creatures in Valheim. Use it to explore coastal areas, hunt Serpents, and gather Chitin from Leviathans. Equip a bow for ranged attacks, carry repair materials, and manage your stamina wisely. While it has limitations, the raft is a stepping stone to more advanced watercraft and can be highly effective with proper preparation and strategy.