How do you deal with Leviathans while sailing a Longship?

Dealing with Leviathans while sailing a Longship in Valheim requires a mix of preparation, awareness, and quick decision-making. Leviathans are massive sea creatures that resemble islands but are actually living beings. They are found in the Ocean biome and can submerge if provoked, potentially damaging or destroying your Longship. Understanding their behavior and how to handle encounters is crucial for safe sailing.\n\nFirst, recognize that Leviathans are passive creatures unless disturbed. They appear as large, rocky formations with barnacles on their backs. When you approach one, it will remain stationary unless you attack it or mine the barnacles (Chitin) on its back. If you choose to harvest Chitin, be prepared for the Leviathan to submerge, which can cause your Longship to capsize or take damage. To avoid this, always keep your Longship at a safe distance while mining.\n\nTo safely harvest Chitin, approach the Leviathan slowly and anchor your Longship nearby. Use a pickaxe to mine the barnacles, but be ready to retreat quickly. As soon as the Leviathan begins to submerge, stop mining and return to your ship. If you are too slow, the Leviathan''s movement can create waves that may damage your Longship or knock you into the water. Always wear a Megingjord (belt that increases carry weight) to maximize your Chitin haul before the Leviathan disappears.\n\nIf you are not interested in harvesting Chitin, the best strategy is to avoid Leviathans altogether. Keep a sharp eye on the horizon while sailing, especially in the Ocean biome. Leviathans are easy to spot due to their size and unique appearance. If you see one, adjust your course to steer clear of it. This is particularly important during storms or at night when visibility is low, as accidentally sailing into a Leviathan can lead to disaster.\n\nIn the event that your Longship is damaged by a Leviathan, always carry materials for repairs. A Longship requires 100 Iron Nails, 40 Fine Wood, 10 Deer Hide, and 40 Resin to craft, so having spare materials like Fine Wood and Resin on hand is wise. Repair your ship using a Workbench, which can be placed on the shore or on a temporary platform built in shallow water. This ensures you can quickly fix any damage and continue your journey.\n\nFor new players, it is recommended to avoid Leviathans entirely until you are confident in your sailing skills and have a sturdy Longship. Experienced Vikings, on the other hand, can use Leviathans as a resource for Chitin, which is used to craft the Abyssal Harpoon and Abyssal Razor. However, always weigh the risks and rewards before engaging with these creatures.\n\nFinally, always sail with a backup plan. Carry a Karve or materials to build a raft in case your Longship is destroyed. Additionally, equip yourself with a strong weapon, such as a Draugr Fang bow or a Blackmetal sword, in case you encounter hostile sea creatures like Serpents while dealing with Leviathans. By staying prepared and vigilant, you can navigate the dangers of the Ocean biome and make the most of your sailing adventures in Valheim.