How do you use a raft to find new biomes efficiently?

Using a raft to explore and find new biomes in Valheim is a crucial early-game strategy for expanding your horizons and gathering resources. A raft is the first watercraft you can craft, requiring 20 Wood, 6 Leather Scraps, and 6 Resin. While it is slow and not ideal for long-distance travel, it is a reliable way to explore nearby islands and coastal areas. To begin, ensure you have a Workbench nearby and gather the necessary materials. Once crafted, place the raft in shallow water and board it to start your journey.\n\nBefore setting sail, prepare for your expedition by bringing essential items. Carry a Hammer, Wood, and a Workbench to repair your raft if it takes damage. Bring a weapon, such as a Flint Spear or Club, to defend against sea serpents or hostile creatures on new biomes. Additionally, pack food like Cooked Meat or Berries to maintain your stamina while sailing. A map and a marker system are also invaluable for tracking your discoveries and planning return trips.\n\nTo efficiently find new biomes, start by scouting from high ground or elevated areas in your starting biome, the Meadows. Look for distant landmasses or changes in terrain color, which indicate different biomes. For example, the Black Forest biome has darker trees and rocky terrain, while the Swamp biome features murky water and dead trees. Once you identify a potential biome, mark it on your map and set sail toward it. Use the wind to your advantage by adjusting your sail direction to maximize speed.\n\nWhile sailing, keep an eye on your surroundings. The ocean biome is vast and can be dangerous, especially at night when sea serpents are more active. If you encounter a serpent, avoid engaging it directly unless you are well-equipped. Instead, steer your raft toward shallow water or land, as serpents cannot follow you there. If your raft takes damage, use your Hammer and Wood to repair it immediately. Always prioritize safety and avoid sailing during storms, as rough waves can make navigation difficult.\n\nOnce you reach a new biome, dock your raft in a safe area and explore on foot. For example, the Black Forest biome is rich in Copper and Tin deposits, essential for crafting Bronze tools and weapons. The Swamp biome contains Scrap Iron, which is necessary for mid-game progression. Be cautious of hostile creatures like Greydwarfs in the Black Forest or Draugr in the Swamp. Establish a small outpost with a Workbench and a Portal to connect it to your main base for easy resource transportation.\n\nTo optimize your exploration, consider upgrading to a Karve or Longship as soon as possible. These vessels are faster and more durable, making long-distance travel more efficient. However, a raft remains a viable option for short trips or early-game exploration. Always plan your routes carefully, and avoid venturing too far from your starting area until you are adequately prepared.\n\nIn summary, using a raft to find new biomes in Valheim requires preparation, careful navigation, and resource management. By following these steps and leveraging the raft''s capabilities, you can efficiently explore the world and unlock new opportunities for survival and progression.