What is the best way to anchor a raft when exploring new areas?

Anchoring a raft in Valheim is essential for safe exploration, especially when venturing into new biomes like the Black Forest or Meadows. The raft is the first watercraft you can build, requiring 20 Wood, 6 Leather Scraps, and 6 Resin. While it’s slow and vulnerable, it’s a reliable way to cross water and explore islands. Properly anchoring your raft ensures you don’t lose it to waves, enemies, or accidental drift.\n\nTo anchor a raft, you need to find a safe spot near the shore. Look for shallow waters where you can easily disembark without swimming. Approach the shore slowly and position the raft so it’s parallel to the land. This minimizes the risk of the raft drifting away. Once close enough, jump off and use the hammer to build a temporary structure, such as a workbench or a small wooden platform, to secure the raft. This acts as an anchor point and prevents the raft from moving.\n\nIf you’re exploring a dangerous biome like the Black Forest, consider building a small outpost near the shore. Use the workbench to craft a fence or stakewall around the raft to protect it from Greylings or Greydwarfs. This also gives you a safe area to retreat to if you encounter enemies. Additionally, you can place a campfire nearby to restore health and stamina while keeping the raft secure.\n\nAnother effective method is to use the terrain to your advantage. Look for natural barriers like rocks or trees that can block the raft from drifting. If you’re in a biome with steep cliffs, such as the Mountains, park the raft in a cove or bay where the land naturally encloses the water. This reduces the chances of the raft being pushed out to sea by waves or storms.\n\nFor long-term exploration, consider upgrading to a Karve or Longship, which are faster and more durable. However, if you’re sticking with the raft, always carry extra materials like Wood and Resin to repair it if damaged. Enemies like Leeches in the Swamp biome can attack your raft, so be prepared to defend it or retreat quickly.\n\nFinally, always plan your route before setting sail. Use the map to mark potential landing spots and avoid areas with high enemy activity. If you’re exploring at night, be extra cautious, as visibility is low, and enemies are more aggressive. By following these steps, you can anchor your raft safely and explore new areas with confidence.\n\nPractical tips: Always carry a hammer and basic building materials when exploring. Build a small shelter near your raft to store items and rest. Avoid parking in deep water or near hostile creatures. Upgrade to better boats as soon as possible for safer and faster travel.