How do you dock a raft safely in Valheim?

Docking a raft safely in Valheim is essential for ensuring your vessel remains secure and accessible during your adventures. Rafts are one of the earliest forms of transportation in the game, crafted using 20 Wood, 6 Leather Scraps, and 6 Resin. They are particularly useful for exploring coastal areas, rivers, and islands in biomes like the Meadows, Black Forest, and Swamp. However, docking a raft properly requires understanding the game''s mechanics and taking precautions to avoid common pitfalls.\n\nTo dock a raft safely, first, identify a suitable location. Look for shallow waters near the shore, as this minimizes the risk of the raft drifting away or being damaged by waves. Avoid docking in deep water or near aggressive creatures like Serpents or Leeches, which can pose a threat to both you and your raft. Once you''ve found a safe spot, approach the shore slowly to avoid crashing into rocks or other obstacles.\n\nWhen you''re close to the shore, reduce your speed by pressing the S key (or the corresponding button on your controller). This allows for better control and prevents the raft from overshooting the landing spot. As you near the shore, press the E key to drop the sail, which will stop the raft''s movement. If you''re using a Karve or Longship later in the game, the same principles apply, but rafts are more prone to drifting due to their slower speed and lack of advanced controls.\n\nOnce the raft is stationary, jump off and use your Hammer to build a simple dock or mooring system. Crafting a dock requires Wood, which is abundant in most biomes. Place Wooden Beams or Floor pieces extending from the shore into the water, ensuring they are level and stable. This creates a platform where you can safely park your raft without it drifting away. Alternatively, you can use a Workbench to build a small enclosure around the raft to keep it secure.\n\nA common challenge players face is the raft drifting away when they leave it unattended. To prevent this, always ensure the raft is fully stopped and anchored to a structure. If you''re in a hurry and don''t have time to build a dock, you can use the Hoe tool to raise the ground near the shore, creating a natural barrier that keeps the raft in place. This is particularly useful in biomes like the Swamp, where building materials may be scarce.\n\nAnother practical tip is to mark your docking location on the map. Press M to open the map and place a custom marker, such as a boat icon, to help you find your raft later. This is especially important in large or unfamiliar biomes where landmarks may be hard to distinguish. Additionally, always carry a Portal with you when exploring by raft. This allows you to quickly return to your base and retrieve materials or repair your raft if needed.\n\nIn summary, docking a raft safely in Valheim involves choosing a suitable location, slowing down as you approach the shore, and securing the raft with a dock or natural barrier. By following these steps and using practical solutions like map markers and Portals, you can ensure your raft remains safe and accessible throughout your journey. Whether you''re a new player or an experienced Viking, mastering these techniques will make your seafaring adventures much smoother and more enjoyable.