What is the best way to avoid losing your raft to a leviathan?

Avoiding the loss of your raft to a leviathan in Valheim requires understanding both the mechanics of rafts and the behavior of these massive sea creatures. Leviathans, also known as Abyssal Barnacles, are rare oceanic creatures that resemble islands but are actually living beings. When you mine their Chitin deposits, they will eventually submerge, potentially destroying your raft if you''re not careful. To prevent this, you need to plan your approach carefully and act quickly.\n\nFirst, always scout the area before approaching a leviathan. Use your map to mark its location and ensure you have a clear escape route. Leviathans are found in the Ocean biome, so be prepared for long voyages. Equip your raft with a Mast and a Rudder for better control, and consider bringing a Karve or Longship if you have access to better materials. These larger boats are faster and more durable, making them safer for exploring dangerous waters.\n\nWhen you spot a leviathan, approach it slowly and anchor your raft at a safe distance. Do not park directly on top of the creature, as this increases the risk of your raft being destroyed when it submerges. Instead, leave enough space to row away quickly if needed. Once anchored, equip your Antler Pickaxe or better mining tool to harvest Chitin from the barnacles. Be efficient and mine as much as you can in one go, as the leviathan will begin to submerge after a few hits.\n\nAs you mine, keep an eye on the leviathan''s movements. If you notice it starting to shake or sink, immediately stop mining and return to your raft. Use the Rudder to steer away from the creature as quickly as possible. If you''re using a Karve or Longship, you can outpace the leviathan''s descent, but a raft is slower and more vulnerable. In this case, prioritize speed and avoid lingering too long.\n\nAnother strategy is to bring a friend to help. One player can focus on mining while the other keeps the raft ready for a quick escape. This teamwork minimizes the risk of losing your raft and ensures you can gather Chitin safely. Additionally, consider bringing a Portal with you to quickly return to your base if things go wrong. Place the Portal on a nearby island or safe location before approaching the leviathan.\n\nFinally, always be prepared for the unexpected. Leviathans are unpredictable, and storms or other sea creatures like Serpents can complicate your mission. Bring a weapon like a Bow or Spear to defend yourself, and stock your raft with food and healing items. If you encounter a Serpent, prioritize escaping over fighting, as they can easily destroy a raft.\n\nIn summary, the best way to avoid losing your raft to a leviathan is to plan ahead, act quickly, and stay vigilant. Use better boats if available, mine efficiently, and always have an escape plan. With these strategies, you can safely harvest Chitin and explore the Ocean biome without fear of losing your raft.