Sailing is essential in Valheim because biomes are spread across oceans and you cannot teleport metal. Here is every boat, how sailing works, and tips for safe voyages.
The Three Boats
| Boat | Material | Cargo Slots | Speed | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Raft | Wood, Leather Scraps, Resin | 4 | Slow | Early crossings |
| Karve | Fine Wood, Deer Hide, Resin, Bronze Nails | 4 | Medium | Exploration, mining runs |
| Longship | Iron Nails, Fine Wood, Deer Hide, Ancient Bark | 18 | Fast | Hauling ore, long voyages |
How Sailing Works
Boats use wind for sail power:
- Tailwind (wind behind you): fastest
- Crosswind: moderate
- Headwind: you must row (slow) or tack at an angle
Sail speeds: Use the sail in stages (rest, half sail, full sail). Rowing works against the wind but is slow.
Reading the Wind
The wind indicator shows direction. Angle your boat to catch wind from behind or the side. You cannot sail directly into the wind with the sail, row or zig-zag instead.
Transporting Ore
Since you cannot portal metal, the Longship's 18 cargo slots make it the ore-hauling workhorse. Plan mining trips:
- Sail the Longship to a mining biome
- Fill cargo with ore
- Sail back to your smelting base
Sea Serpents
Serpents spawn in oceans, especially during storms at night. They attack boats. Options:
- Fight: harpoon and pull them to shallow water, then melee for Serpent Scales (shield material) and meat
- Flee: outrun them with a tailwind Longship
Boat Tips
- Build a dock and portal at your harbor for quick returns
- Repair boats at a Workbench before long trips
- Beach your boat carefully, crashing into rocks causes damage
- Keep a Longship for cargo and a Karve for nimble scouting
FAQ
What is the best boat in Valheim? The Longship for cargo and long trips; the Karve for nimble exploration.
Why can't I sail forward? You are likely facing a headwind. Row or angle the boat to catch side wind.
How do you transport metal in Valheim? By boat or cart, since metal cannot go through portals. The Longship is best for ore.
Related: Valheim portals guide, Valheim progression guide, Valheim dedicated server