How do I use the Raft for early-game exploration?

The Raft is the first ship you can craft in Valheim, and it is essential for early-game exploration. To build a Raft, you need 20 Wood, 6 Leather Scraps, and 6 Resin. These materials are relatively easy to gather in the Meadows biome, where you start the game. Wood can be obtained by chopping down trees, Leather Scraps come from hunting Boars, and Resin is dropped by Greylings or found in abandoned structures. Once you have the materials, craft the Raft at a Workbench.\n\nTo use the Raft, place it in shallow water near the shore. Interact with it to board, and you will see a rudder at the back. Use the rudder to steer the Raft. The Raft moves forward when you press the W key (or equivalent on consoles) and backward with the S key. Turning is done with the A and D keys. Be aware that the Raft is slow and not very maneuverable, so plan your routes carefully to avoid getting stuck or capsizing in rough waters.\n\nEarly-game exploration with the Raft is best suited for short trips to nearby islands or coastal areas. Avoid venturing too far into the ocean, as the Raft is not designed for long-distance travel or harsh weather conditions. If you encounter a storm, try to stay close to the shore or find a safe spot to wait it out. The Raft can be destroyed by Sea Serpents, so avoid deep ocean areas until you have a stronger ship like the Karve or Longship.\n\nOne common challenge with the Raft is its lack of storage. To solve this, consider building a small base or outpost near your exploration area. This allows you to store resources and rest safely. You can also craft a Hammer and bring additional materials to build a temporary shelter if needed. Another tip is to mark your starting point on the map using a marker or portal, so you can easily return if you get lost.\n\nWhen exploring new biomes, such as the Black Forest or Swamp, use the Raft to scout the coastline before venturing inland. This helps you identify potential threats, resources, and safe landing spots. For example, the Black Forest often has Copper and Tin deposits near the shore, which are essential for crafting Bronze. The Swamp biome, however, is dangerous and should be approached with caution due to hostile creatures like Leeches and Draugr.\n\nIn summary, the Raft is a simple but effective tool for early-game exploration in Valheim. Focus on gathering the required materials, plan your routes carefully, and avoid dangerous areas until you have better equipment. Use the Raft to scout new biomes, establish outposts, and gather resources safely. As you progress, upgrade to stronger ships like the Karve or Longship for more efficient and secure travel.\n\nPractical tips: Always carry a Hammer and basic building materials when exploring with the Raft. This allows you to create temporary shelters or repair the Raft if it takes damage. Additionally, keep an eye on your stamina while sailing, as running out of stamina can leave you stranded. Finally, use the Raft to transport heavy items like ore or stone, as it can save you time and effort compared to carrying them on foot.