In this guide, we will tell you all the details about building and sailing ships in the game Valheim. Let's get started! 

Types of Ships in Valheim

Currently, there aren't many types of "transport" on water in Valheim, but another update is coming soon, and the situation may change drastically. But for now, let's not talk about that. In Valheim, you can build the following ships:

1. Raft;

2. Karve or sailboat;

3. Longship or drakkar.

They differ from each other in various characteristics such as capacity, speed, and more. To start building ships, you will first need to construct a workbench on the seaside. Also, make sure you have gathered all the necessary resources for construction. 

How to Build a Raft 

The simplest thing you can do is craft yourself a raft. It will always take you to any part of the bay, but it is strongly recommended not to venture into the open sea with it. Why? It's simple: a sea monster will smash it to pieces at the first encounter.  

To build a raft, you will need the following materials:

- 20 units of wood;

- 6 units of leather scraps;

- 10 units of resin.

You can easily obtain these materials at the beginning of the game. They are readily available, and it won't be difficult to gather them. 

How to Build a Karve (Sailboat) 

This "transport" resembles a full-fledged ship. On a sailboat, you can easily travel long distances and navigate the seas. If necessary, you can escape from sea serpents.  

On this "flying Dutchman," you can engage in battles with sea monsters and defeat them. But don't forget that a harpoon and a strong desire to win will come in handy. 

To build it, you will need the following materials: 

1. 30 units of fine wood;

2. 10 units of deer hide;

3. 20 units of resin;

4. 80 units of bronze nails.

One caveat - You cannot build a karve until you defeat the Elder. Why? Only after defeating the monster, you will receive metal as a reward. In fact, the boat is sufficient for comfortable travel across the seas and bays, but it's not the limit. 

How to Build a Longship (Drakkar)

The drakkar is the pinnacle of shipbuilding and the greatest treasure for every gamer in this game. The ship has a total of 18 cargo slots, while the karve has only 4. The drakkar has high speed and a large durability reserve. 

To build the ship, you will need the following materials:

1. 100 units of iron nails;

2. 10 units of deer hide;

3. 40 units of fine wood;

4. 40 units of ancient bark.

Unfortunately, creating a drakkar is only possible after defeating the Ancient boss. Gathering the materials is not as difficult as it seems, considering that you will get the best ship in the game. It has no weak spots, and you can sail the seas endlessly with it. 

Sailing in Valheim

Novice Vikings often wonder how to control a ship because it doesn't respond. 

To set sail from the shore, walk to the back of the ship and grab the helm. You will need the A and D keys for this. You can increase or decrease the speed using the W and S keys.  

To achieve maximum speed, simply sail with the wind using all sails. If the wind is not favorable, sail on a tangent to your destination and wait for it to change direction to the desired one. 

There is another way to travel against the wind: lower the sails and sail, but then your speed will be minimal. 

Why You Need a Boat in Valheim

It is logical to note that a boat is not necessary for progression in the game. But what about the Viking spirit, its role in this world? No response? Well, there are other reasons why you should venture into the sea.  

Actually, it's simple - time savings. That's the first and most important motivation for building boats. It allows you to reach different parts of the map much faster. 

Only practical players choose to travel by sea. While walking on land, you may encounter a huge number of enemies that can kill you. 

Also, to obtain chitin, you will need to venture into the sea and defeat leviathans. Why? With it, you can create excellent powerful weapons. We hope you understand the importance of ships in Valheim. 

Ship Controls in Valheim

It doesn't matter which ship you are piloting; you should understand some control nuances: 

1. When sailing at full speed, do not steer your ship into the dead zone - it is not rational, and you will most likely come to a halt. 

2. Never reduce your speed, or else a sea creature will overpower you. If you are on a raft, your chances of survival are zero. The drakkar and karve are capable of saving you. 

3. Choosing the weather is a crucial aspect of the game. If it's foggy outside, it's better not to set sail. Have you set sail from the shore? Don't be surprised if you run aground in 5 minutes. 

4. Every ship has a special ladder for boarding. You will need it if your character gets thrown overboard. 

5. Semi-sail mode. Allows you to maintain mobility during combat while keeping the ship reasonably maneuverable. 

6. Your ship can run aground on reefs, so avoid them by all means, or else you will lose a lot of the ship's durability.