Can you use a raft to explore the Ocean biome early in the game?

Yes, you can use a raft to explore the Ocean biome early in Valheim, but it comes with significant risks and limitations. A raft is one of the first watercraft you can craft, requiring only 20 Wood, 6 Leather Scraps, and 6 Resin. These materials are relatively easy to obtain in the early game, making the raft an accessible option for new players. However, the raft is slow, fragile, and difficult to maneuver, which makes ocean exploration challenging.\n\nTo craft a raft, you need to build a Workbench first. Place the Workbench near water, as rafts can only be deployed in water. Once the Workbench is set up, open the crafting menu and select the raft. After crafting, place the raft in the water by selecting it from your inventory and clicking on the water''s surface. You can then board the raft by pressing E and use the WASD keys to move. The raft is controlled by a rudder, which requires you to face the direction you want to go.\n\nExploring the Ocean biome early in the game can be dangerous due to the presence of hostile creatures like Serpents. Serpents are large sea monsters that can destroy your raft quickly if you''re not careful. Additionally, the raft''s slow speed makes it difficult to escape from these threats. To mitigate this risk, avoid venturing too far from the shore and always keep an eye out for Serpents. If you encounter one, try to steer the raft toward land or shallow water where the Serpent cannot follow.\n\nAnother challenge of using a raft is its limited storage and inability to transport large amounts of resources. If you plan to explore islands or gather materials, you''ll need to make multiple trips or upgrade to a better boat like the Karve or Longship later in the game. The raft is best used for short-distance travel, such as crossing rivers or reaching nearby islands in the Meadows or Black Forest biomes.\n\nFor new players, it''s important to prepare before setting sail. Bring essential items like a weapon, food, and a Hammer to repair the raft if it takes damage. Repairing a raft requires Wood, so always carry extra. Additionally, consider building a small shelter or portal on the shore before venturing out. This way, you can quickly return to safety if things go wrong.\n\nExperienced Vikings can use the raft strategically to scout new areas or gather resources from nearby islands. However, they should also be aware of its limitations and plan accordingly. For example, if you''re exploring the Ocean biome for the first time, mark your starting point on the map and avoid traveling too far without a clear plan. The Ocean biome is vast, and getting lost can be deadly.\n\nIn summary, while the raft is a viable option for early-game ocean exploration, it requires careful planning and preparation. Use it for short trips, avoid dangerous areas, and always be ready to retreat if necessary. As you progress, consider upgrading to more advanced boats for safer and more efficient ocean travel.\n\nPractical tips: Always carry extra Wood for repairs, avoid traveling at night when Serpents are more active, and build a portal on the shore before exploring. These steps will help you make the most of your raft while minimizing risks.