How do you find and explore underwater ruins in the ocean?

Exploring underwater ruins in Valheim''s ocean biome is a thrilling but challenging task that requires preparation, strategy, and the right tools. These ruins are hidden beneath the waves and often contain valuable loot, such as chitin, which is essential for crafting high-tier items like the Abyssal Harpoon and Abyssal Razor. To begin your underwater exploration, you must first craft a Longship or Karve, as these vessels are sturdy enough to navigate the ocean biome safely. Ensure you have a reliable source of food, such as cooked meat or fish, to maintain your stamina while swimming and diving.\n\nBefore venturing into the ocean, equip yourself with a Bronze or Iron Pickaxe, as you will need it to harvest chitin from the barnacle-covered Abyssal Barnacles found on the ruins. Additionally, bring a strong weapon, such as a Finewood Bow or a melee weapon like a Sword or Mace, to defend against hostile sea creatures like Serpents or Leeches. It is also highly recommended to craft a Megingjord (belt) to increase your carry weight, as underwater ruins often contain heavy loot that can quickly fill your inventory.\n\nTo locate underwater ruins, sail across the ocean biome and keep an eye out for large, dark shapes beneath the surface. These structures are typically found in deeper waters and are often surrounded by glowing jellyfish, which can serve as a visual cue. Once you spot a ruin, anchor your ship nearby and prepare to dive. Be cautious of your stamina bar, as it depletes quickly underwater. Consume stamina-boosting foods like Honey or Carrot Soup before diving to maximize your exploration time.\n\nWhen diving, swim down to the ruins and look for Abyssal Barnacles, which appear as large, barnacle-covered rocks. Use your pickaxe to mine them for chitin. Be mindful of your oxygen levels, as staying underwater for too long will cause you to drown. To avoid this, surface periodically to replenish your oxygen and stamina. If you encounter hostile creatures, such as Leeches, use your weapon to fend them off quickly before resuming your exploration.\n\nOne common challenge is dealing with Serpents, which are aggressive sea creatures that can attack both you and your ship. To mitigate this risk, avoid exploring during storms, as Serpents are more likely to spawn in rough weather. If a Serpent does appear, use your bow to attack it from a distance or retreat to your ship and sail away. Another tip is to bring a friend or two, as multiplayer exploration makes it easier to fend off threats and gather resources more efficiently.\n\nFinally, always plan your underwater expeditions carefully. Bring a portal with you to set up a quick return point near the ocean biome, and store your loot on your ship to avoid losing it if you die. With the right preparation and strategy, exploring underwater ruins can be a rewarding experience that yields valuable resources for your Viking adventures.\n\nPractical tips: Always carry a pickaxe, stamina-boosting food, and a weapon when exploring underwater ruins. Use a Longship or Karve for safe ocean travel, and avoid storms to reduce the risk of Serpent encounters. Set up a portal nearby for quick access and loot storage.