How do you increase your sailing skill while using a raft?

Increasing your sailing skill in Valheim while using a raft is a straightforward but time-intensive process. The sailing skill improves as you spend time actively controlling a raft or any other boat in the game. The skill increases based on the distance traveled and the time spent sailing, so the more you use your raft, the faster your skill will grow. However, rafts are the slowest and least maneuverable watercraft in Valheim, making them less efficient for skill leveling compared to later boats like the Karve or Longship.\n\nTo begin, you’ll need to craft a raft. This requires 20 Wood, 6 Leather Scraps, and 6 Resin. Wood can be gathered by chopping trees, Leather Scraps are obtained from hunting boars, and Resin drops from Greydwarfs or can be collected from Beech Trees. Once you have the materials, craft the raft at a Workbench. Place the raft in shallow water, and you’re ready to start sailing.\n\nTo increase your sailing skill, simply take the raft out on the water and start moving. The skill gains are tied to the time spent actively controlling the raft, so avoid standing still or letting the raft drift. Sail in a straight line or practice turning to maximize your skill gains. Be cautious of storms, as they can make sailing more challenging and potentially damage your raft. If you’re new to sailing, stick to calm waters near the Meadows biome until you’re more comfortable.\n\nOne common challenge is the raft’s slow speed, which can make skill leveling feel tedious. To mitigate this, consider sailing longer distances or exploring new biomes. For example, you can use the raft to travel to the Black Forest or Swamp biomes, which often contain valuable resources. This way, you’re not only leveling your sailing skill but also progressing in the game. Be mindful of enemies like Serpents, which can attack your raft in deeper waters. Always carry a weapon and be prepared to defend yourself.\n\nAnother tip is to combine sailing with other activities. For instance, you can fish while sailing to make the time pass more quickly. Fishing requires a Fishing Rod and bait, which can be crafted or purchased from Haldor the merchant. This dual-purpose approach ensures you’re making progress in multiple areas of the game while leveling your sailing skill.\n\nFor experienced players, consider upgrading to a Karve or Longship as soon as possible. These boats are faster and more durable, making them better for skill leveling. However, if you’re still in the early game and only have access to a raft, focus on exploring nearby islands and gathering resources. This will help you prepare for crafting better boats while still improving your sailing skill.\n\nIn summary, increasing your sailing skill with a raft requires patience and consistent effort. Spend time actively controlling the raft, explore new biomes, and combine sailing with other activities like fishing or resource gathering. While rafts are slow, they’re a great starting point for new players. As you progress, upgrade to faster boats to make skill leveling more efficient. Always be prepared for challenges like storms or enemy encounters, and enjoy the journey of becoming a skilled Viking sailor.