How do you avoid losing a Longship when logging out mid-voyage?

Losing a Longship in Valheim when logging out mid-voyage can be a frustrating experience, but with proper planning and understanding of game mechanics, you can avoid this issue entirely. The Longship is one of the most valuable vessels in the game, requiring significant resources like Iron Nails, Fine Wood, and Deer Hide to craft. Losing it due to logging out improperly can set you back significantly, especially in the mid-to-late game.\n\nWhen you log out of Valheim, the game world pauses, and all entities, including your Longship, remain in their last state. However, if you log out while sailing in open water, the Longship will not be anchored or secured, and upon logging back in, it may drift away or despawn. This is because the game does not automatically anchor ships when you disconnect. To prevent this, you must take specific steps to secure your Longship before logging out.\n\nThe first step is to ensure you are near land or a safe docking area before logging out. Sailing to the nearest shoreline or biome, such as the Meadows, Black Forest, or Plains, is ideal. Once you reach land, dock the Longship by approaching the shore slowly and pressing the ''E'' key to disembark. This will anchor the ship, preventing it from drifting away. If you are in a biome with hostile creatures, such as the Swamp or Plains, ensure you are in a safe spot to avoid being attacked while logging out.\n\nIf you are unable to reach land before logging out, another solution is to build a temporary dock or platform using Wood or Core Wood. This can be done by crafting a Hammer and gathering the necessary materials. Place a few wooden floor pieces or beams in the water near your Longship to create a makeshift dock. This will allow you to anchor the ship securely, even in deep water. This method is particularly useful in biomes like the Ocean, where land is scarce.\n\nFor players who frequently travel long distances, consider building small outposts or portals along your sailing routes. These outposts can serve as safe docking points and provide a quick way to return to your Longship if needed. To build a portal, you will need Fine Wood, Greydwarf Eyes, and Surtling Cores. Place the portal near the shore and link it to your main base for easy access. This strategy is especially helpful in biomes like the Mistlands or Ashlands, where resources are scarce and dangers are high.\n\nAnother important tip is to always carry a spare Karve or materials to craft a raft in case your Longship is lost. While these smaller vessels are not as fast or durable, they can serve as a backup to help you retrieve your Longship or return to safety. Keep a stack of Wood and Resin in your inventory for emergencies.\n\nFinally, always double-check your surroundings before logging out. Ensure no enemies are nearby, and your Longship is properly anchored. If you are playing on a multiplayer server, communicate with other players to ensure your ship is safe. By following these steps, you can avoid losing your Longship and continue your Viking adventures without unnecessary setbacks.\n\nIn summary, securing your Longship before logging out is crucial to avoid losing it mid-voyage. Always aim to dock near land, build temporary docks if necessary, and consider creating outposts or portals for long journeys. Carry backup materials and stay vigilant about your surroundings. These strategies will help you protect your valuable Longship and ensure smooth sailing in Valheim.