What is the best way to handle a Longship during a raid event?

Handling a Longship during a raid event in Valheim requires careful planning and execution to ensure both your ship and your base remain safe. The Longship is the fastest and most durable vessel in the game, making it ideal for transporting large amounts of cargo or escaping dangerous situations. However, during a raid event, enemies will target your base and any nearby structures, including your ship. To protect your Longship, you need to understand raid mechanics, prepare your surroundings, and have a clear strategy for defending or relocating your vessel.\n\nFirst, understand how raid events work. Raids are triggered randomly when you are near your base and have defeated certain bosses, such as Eikthyr or The Elder. During a raid, waves of enemies will spawn and attack your base, including any nearby structures like your Longship. If your ship is docked too close to your base, it can be destroyed by enemy attacks. To avoid this, always dock your Longship in a secure location away from your main base, preferably in a sheltered area like a natural harbor or behind a walled dock.\n\nWhen a raid begins, prioritize protecting your Longship. If your ship is already docked in a safe location, focus on defending your base. However, if your Longship is at risk, quickly board it and sail away from the raid area. The Longship''s speed allows you to outrun most enemies, especially if you have favorable wind conditions. Use the rudder to steer away from land and avoid shallow waters where enemies can still attack. If you are caught in a raid while sailing, keep moving and use the ship''s durability to your advantage.\n\nIf you cannot escape, consider using the Longship as a mobile defense platform. The Longship has enough space for you to equip a bow and arrows, allowing you to attack enemies from a distance. Position the ship so that enemies are forced to swim toward you, making them easier targets. Additionally, you can use the ship''s mast and sails as cover to avoid ranged attacks. This strategy works best in open water, where enemies have limited mobility and cannot surround you.\n\nFor long-term protection, consider building a fortified dock. Use stone or wood walls to create a secure enclosure for your Longship, ensuring it is protected from enemy attacks. Place workbenches or other crafting stations nearby to prevent enemy spawns in the area. If you are in a biome like the Plains or Mountains, where raids are more dangerous, consider building a moat or trench around your dock to further deter enemies. These preparations will help you keep your Longship safe during future raids.\n\nFinally, always be prepared for unexpected situations. Carry essential items like a hammer, wood, and nails to repair your Longship if it takes damage. Keep a portal near your dock for quick access to your base or other locations. If you are exploring far from home, consider building a small outpost with a portal to ensure you can return quickly during a raid. By following these steps, you can effectively handle your Longship during raid events and minimize the risk of losing your valuable vessel.\n\nIn summary, the best way to handle a Longship during a raid event is to dock it in a secure location, use its speed to escape danger, and prepare your surroundings with defensive structures. Understanding raid mechanics and having a clear strategy will help you protect your Longship and ensure your survival in Valheim.