Boat Structure
Building a massive, ship-like vessel in Raft requires shifting your focus from simple survival to structural engineering. To achieve a realistic boat shape, start by sketching a foundation layout that is at least 4 to 6 units wide; using even numbers ensures you can create a perfectly centered, pointed bow using triangle foundations. Many builders use a "false bottom" or raised hull design, employing diagonal roof pieces along the edges to simulate the curved hull of a yacht, which effectively masks the flat square foundations underneath.
Engines
As your raft grows, engine management becomes the primary constraint. The game requires one engine for every 100 foundations, but you only need a maximum of six engines to propel a raft of any size, including those exceeding 600 foundations. To maximize efficiency, many players build "up" rather than "out," utilizing pillars and walls to support multiple floors, which provides ample room for farming, storage, and navigation without increasing the foundation count beyond what a few engines can handle.
Protecting your Boat
Finally, protecting a large investment is critical. A massive raft is a prime target for Bruce the shark, so armoring your foundations with metal ingots and nails is essential. For the best aesthetics, consider dividing your ship into functional zones: a lower deck for heavy machinery like engines and biofuel refiners, a middle deck for workstations and living quarters, and a top-level "bridge" for the steering wheel and receiver to ensure a clear view for navigation.