What’s the best way to avoid getting lost while sailing at night?

Sailing at night in Valheim can be a thrilling yet risky endeavor, especially if you’re unprepared. The darkness reduces visibility, making it easy to lose your bearings or crash into unseen obstacles. To avoid getting lost, you need to combine preparation, navigation tools, and smart sailing strategies.\n\nFirst, always prepare before setting sail. Craft a Karve or Longship, as these vessels are faster and more durable than the basic Raft. Ensure you have enough materials to repair your ship during the journey, such as Fine Wood and Bronze Nails. Stock up on food and mead for stamina and health regeneration, as sailing can be physically demanding. Additionally, bring a Portal Kit (10 Fine Wood, 2 Surtling Cores, and 20 Greydwarf Eyes) to establish a quick return point if you get stranded.\n\nNext, use the in-game map to your advantage. Before sailing, mark your starting point and destination with map markers. This will help you track your progress even in low visibility. If you’re exploring new areas, place markers on islands or landmarks you pass to create a mental map of the region. The map is your best friend when navigating at night, so keep it open and refer to it frequently.\n\nLighting is another critical factor. Equip a Dverger Circlet or carry a torch to improve visibility around your ship. The Dverger Circlet, found in Frost Caves in the Mountain biome, provides a constant light source without needing fuel. If you don’t have one, place a standing torch or campfire on your ship’s deck for temporary illumination. However, be cautious with open flames, as they can attract hostile creatures like Serpents.\n\nPay attention to the stars and moon. While Valheim’s night sky doesn’t provide precise navigation like real-world celestial navigation, the moon’s position can help you maintain a general sense of direction. If you’re sailing toward a specific biome, such as the Plains or Swamp, use the biome’s distinct environmental cues (e.g., the Swamp’s eerie green glow) to guide you.\n\nAvoid sailing too close to shorelines or shallow waters at night. Rocks, reefs, and other hazards are harder to spot in the dark, increasing the risk of damaging your ship. Instead, sail in deeper waters where obstacles are less common. If you must navigate near land, slow down and use the rudder carefully to avoid collisions.\n\nFinally, consider sailing with a friend. Multiplayer sailing allows one player to focus on navigation while the other steers the ship. This teamwork can make nighttime voyages safer and more efficient. If you’re sailing solo, take breaks to reassess your position and adjust your course as needed.\n\nIn summary, the best way to avoid getting lost while sailing at night in Valheim is to prepare thoroughly, use the map and lighting effectively, and navigate cautiously. By following these steps, you can explore the seas confidently, even in the darkest hours.