What is the best way to handle nighttime sailing with a raft?

Nighttime sailing in Valheim can be challenging, especially when using a raft, as visibility is limited and hostile creatures become more active. The raft is one of the earliest watercraft you can build, requiring 20 Wood, 6 Leather Scraps, and 6 Resin. While it is slow and vulnerable, it is essential for early exploration and resource gathering. To handle nighttime sailing effectively, you need to prepare thoroughly and understand the game mechanics.\n\nFirst, ensure you have the necessary tools and resources before setting sail. Craft a Hammer and a Workbench to build your raft. You will also need a Flint Axe to gather Wood and a Stone Axe to collect Resin from Greydwarf nests. Leather Scraps can be obtained by hunting Boars in the Meadows biome. Once you have the materials, place the raft in shallow water and board it using the E key. Always carry extra Wood and Resin to repair your raft if it takes damage.\n\nVisibility is a major issue during nighttime sailing. To mitigate this, craft a Torch or a Campfire to place on your raft. Torches require 1 Wood and 1 Resin, while Campfires need 5 Stone and 2 Wood. These light sources will help you see your surroundings and deter some hostile creatures. However, be cautious with Campfires, as they can damage your raft if placed incorrectly. Position them near the center of the raft to avoid accidental fires.\n\nHostile creatures, such as Serpents and Leeches, are more active at night and can pose a significant threat. Serpents are found in the Ocean biome and can destroy your raft if not dealt with quickly. To defend yourself, equip a Flint Spear or a Crude Bow with Wood Arrows. These weapons are effective against aquatic enemies and can be crafted early in the game. If you encounter a Serpent, aim for its head to deal maximum damage and avoid letting it circle your raft.\n\nNavigation is another challenge during nighttime sailing. Use the stars and the position of the moon to orient yourself. The map can be accessed by pressing M, but it does not show your exact location unless you have explored the area before. To avoid getting lost, mark your starting point with a visible landmark, such as a tall tree or a rock formation. You can also place a Campfire or a Workbench onshore to create a temporary waypoint.\n\nWeather conditions, such as rain and storms, can further complicate nighttime sailing. Rain reduces visibility and increases the risk of hypothermia, while storms can push your raft off course. To stay warm, craft a Deer Hide Cape or a Troll Hide Cape, which provide cold resistance. If you are caught in a storm, try to steer your raft toward the nearest shore or island to wait out the bad weather. Avoid sailing during storms unless absolutely necessary.\n\nFinally, always plan your trips carefully. Nighttime sailing should be avoided unless you are well-prepared. If you must sail at night, stick to familiar routes and avoid venturing too far from shore. Carry extra food, such as Cooked Meat or Berries, to restore health and stamina. If you are exploring new areas, consider building a small shelter or a portal onshore to establish a safe haven.\n\nIn summary, nighttime sailing with a raft in Valheim requires careful preparation and awareness of the game mechanics. Equip yourself with light sources, weapons, and warm clothing to handle the challenges of low visibility and hostile creatures. Use landmarks and the map to navigate effectively, and avoid sailing during storms. By following these tips, you can safely explore the waters of Valheim and make the most of your raft.