What is the best way to dock a raft near my base?

Docking a raft near your base in Valheim is essential for efficient travel and resource management. A raft is one of the earliest watercraft you can build, requiring only 20 Wood, 6 Leather Scraps, and 6 Resin. While it’s slow compared to later boats, it’s a reliable way to explore coastal areas and transport materials. To dock a raft effectively, you need to consider the terrain, base layout, and game mechanics.\n\nFirst, choose a suitable location near your base for docking. Look for a flat shoreline or shallow water area where the raft can easily approach without getting stuck. Avoid areas with steep cliffs or dense forests, as these can make docking and accessing the raft difficult. If your base is inland, consider building a small dock or pier extending into the water to create a safe and accessible docking point.\n\nTo build a basic dock, gather Wood and craft Wooden Beams or Wooden Poles. Place these horizontally into the water, creating a platform that extends from the shore. Ensure the dock is wide enough to accommodate the raft and has enough space for you to board and disembark easily. You can also add stairs or ladders to make it easier to access from land.\n\nWhen approaching your base with the raft, slow down as you near the dock. Use the rudder to align the raft parallel to the dock, ensuring it doesn’t collide with the structure. Once aligned, press the interact key (default E) to stop the raft. This will anchor it in place, preventing it from drifting away. If the raft is too far from the dock, use the jump key to leap onto the dock and pull the raft closer using the interact key.\n\nOne common challenge is the raft drifting away due to waves or wind. To prevent this, always anchor the raft by pressing the interact key when docking. Additionally, you can build a small enclosure or fence around the dock to keep the raft secure. This is especially useful in stormy weather or when dealing with aggressive sea creatures like Serpents.\n\nFor players in the Black Forest or Meadows biome, docking is relatively straightforward due to the calm waters and flat terrain. However, in the Ocean biome, waves can make docking more challenging. In such cases, consider building a longer dock or using a Karve (a faster and more stable boat) once you’ve unlocked it.\n\nFinally, always keep an eye on your raft’s durability. Rafts can take damage from collisions, waves, or enemy attacks. Repair it regularly using a Workbench placed near the dock. If you’re planning longer voyages, consider upgrading to a Karve or Longship for better speed and durability.\n\nIn summary, docking a raft near your base requires careful planning and construction. Choose a flat shoreline, build a sturdy dock, and always anchor the raft to prevent drifting. With these tips, you’ll have a reliable and efficient docking system for your Valheim adventures.