Can you use a raft to transport ore without penalties?

In Valheim, transporting ore is a critical part of progressing through the game, as ores like copper, tin, and iron are essential for crafting advanced tools, weapons, and armor. However, ore cannot be transported through portals, which forces players to find alternative methods to move these heavy resources. One such method is using a raft, but it comes with its own set of challenges and limitations.\n\nA raft is one of the earliest watercraft you can build in Valheim, requiring only 20 wood, 6 leather scraps, and 10 resin. It is a slow but functional vessel for crossing water bodies like rivers, lakes, and oceans. While a raft can technically transport ore, it is not the most efficient or safe method due to its slow speed, low durability, and vulnerability to environmental threats like storms, serpents, and hostile creatures.\n\nTo use a raft for ore transport, you must first gather the necessary materials and craft it at a workbench. Once built, place the raft in a body of water and load your ore into your inventory. Be cautious, as carrying ore will slow your movement speed, making it harder to escape danger. When sailing, avoid open ocean biomes, as serpents are more likely to spawn there and can easily destroy your raft. Stick to calmer waters like rivers or coastal areas to minimize risks.\n\nOne common challenge when using a raft is its slow speed, which makes long journeys tedious and increases the likelihood of encountering threats. To mitigate this, plan your route carefully, avoiding areas with high enemy activity or rough waters. Additionally, consider building a small outpost near your mining site to store ore temporarily, reducing the number of trips you need to make.\n\nAnother issue is the raft''s low durability. If you are attacked by a serpent or hit rocks, your raft can break, causing you to lose your ore. To prevent this, always carry materials to repair your raft during the journey. Keep an eye on your stamina while sailing, as running out of stamina can leave you stranded or unable to fight off threats.\n\nFor more efficient ore transport, consider upgrading to a karve or longship once you have the resources. These vessels are faster, more durable, and have storage space, making them better suited for transporting heavy loads. However, if you are early in the game and lack the materials for a karve or longship, a raft can serve as a temporary solution.\n\nIn summary, while a raft can be used to transport ore, it is not ideal due to its slow speed, low durability, and vulnerability to threats. Plan your route carefully, avoid dangerous biomes, and always carry repair materials. As you progress, prioritize upgrading to a karve or longship for safer and more efficient ore transport.\n\nPractical tips: Always scout your route before setting sail, avoid sailing at night when visibility is low, and consider building a cart to transport ore from your mining site to your raft. These strategies will help you minimize risks and make the most of your raft until you can upgrade to better vessels.