How to Cross Water in Animal Crossing: A Guide to Navigating Your Island's Waterways

Animal Crossing: New Horizons has captivated players with its charming gameplay, allowing them to create and customize their own island paradise. One of the many features that make the game so engaging is the presence of water bodies, such as rivers, ponds, and the ocean, which add to the island’s natural beauty. However, these water bodies can also pose a challenge when it comes to navigation. In this article, we will explore various methods to cross water in Animal Crossing, along with some creative and unconventional ideas that might just make your island life a little more interesting.

1. Using the Vaulting Pole

The most straightforward and commonly used method to cross water in Animal Crossing is by using the Vaulting Pole. This tool, which can be crafted using 5 pieces of softwood, allows players to vault over rivers and streams with ease. Here’s how you can obtain and use it:

• Crafting the Vaulting Pole: Once you’ve gathered the necessary materials, head to a DIY workbench to craft the Vaulting Pole. If you don’t have the recipe yet, Blathers will give it to you after you donate 15 different creatures to the museum.

• Using the Vaulting Pole: Equip the Vaulting Pole from your inventory and stand near the edge of the water. Press the “A” button to vault across the river. It’s a quick and efficient way to navigate your island, especially in the early stages of the game.

2. Building Bridges

As your island develops, you may want to consider building bridges to make crossing water more convenient. Bridges are permanent structures that allow you to walk across rivers without the need for tools. Here’s how you can go about building one:

• Unlocking Bridges: After progressing through the game and upgrading Resident Services to a building, Tom Nook will introduce the concept of infrastructure projects, including bridges.

• Choosing a Bridge Design: There are several bridge designs to choose from, each with its own aesthetic and cost. You can select a design that complements your island’s theme.

• Placing the Bridge: Once you’ve chosen a design, you’ll need to select a suitable location for the bridge. Ensure that the river is narrow enough for the bridge to span across. After placing the bridge, you’ll need to wait for it to be constructed, which usually takes a day.

3. Using the Ladder to Access Higher Ground

While not directly related to crossing water, the Ladder can be an essential tool for navigating your island’s terrain, especially when water bodies are involved. Here’s how you can use the Ladder to your advantage:

• Obtaining the Ladder: The Ladder DIY recipe is given to you by Tom Nook after you invite three new villagers to your island and set up their housing plots.

• Climbing Cliffs: The Ladder allows you to climb up and down cliffs, which can be particularly useful if you need to cross a river that flows through a cliffside. By climbing up to higher ground, you can often find alternative routes to cross water without needing to vault or swim.

4. Swimming and Diving

In the summer update for Animal Crossing: New Horizons, Nintendo introduced the ability to swim and dive in the ocean. This feature not only adds a new layer of exploration but also provides a unique way to cross water. Here’s how you can get started:

• Purchasing a Wet Suit: To swim, you’ll need a Wet Suit, which can be purchased from Nook’s Cranny or the Nook Shopping app. There are various designs available, so you can choose one that suits your style.

• Entering the Water: Once you have a Wet Suit, equip it and head to the ocean. Press “A” to enter the water, and use the control stick to swim around.

• Crossing Water: While swimming is primarily used for exploring the ocean and collecting sea creatures, it can also be used to cross small bodies of water, such as narrow rivers or ponds. However, keep in mind that swimming is slower than using a Vaulting Pole or bridge, so it’s not the most efficient method for crossing water.

5. Using the Terraforming Tool

For players who have unlocked the Island Designer App, terraforming offers a more advanced way to manipulate your island’s landscape, including its water bodies. Here’s how you can use terraforming to cross water:

• Unlocking Terraforming: Terraforming becomes available after you achieve a 3-star island rating and host the K.K. Slider concert. Once unlocked, you can purchase the Island Designer App for 6,000 Nook Miles.

• Creating Paths Over Water: With the Island Designer App, you can create paths that extend over water, effectively creating makeshift bridges. While these paths won’t function exactly like traditional bridges, they can provide a creative solution for crossing water.

• Altering the Landscape: Terraforming also allows you to reshape rivers and ponds, making them narrower or even removing them entirely. By altering the landscape, you can create new routes that make crossing water easier.

6. Using the Rescue Service

In a pinch, you can always rely on the Rescue Service to help you cross water. This service, provided by the Dodo Airlines, can transport you back to your home or a nearby location if you find yourself stuck. Here’s how it works:

• Accessing the Rescue Service: Open your NookPhone and select the “Call Islander” app. From there, you can choose the “Rescue Service” option.

• Cost: Using the Rescue Service costs 100 Nook Miles, so it’s not the most economical option for regular use. However, it can be a lifesaver if you’re in a tricky situation.

7. Creative Solutions: Custom Designs and Illusions

For those who enjoy a more creative approach, custom designs can be used to create the illusion of crossing water. Here’s how you can use custom designs to enhance your island’s navigation:

• Creating Paths: You can design custom paths that mimic bridges or stepping stones across water. While these designs won’t actually allow you to cross water, they can add a decorative element to your island and make it feel more cohesive.

• Using Patterns: By placing custom patterns on the ground near water, you can create the illusion of a path or bridge. This method is purely aesthetic but can be a fun way to experiment with your island’s design.

8. Time Travel: A Controversial Method

Some players choose to use time travel to speed up the construction of bridges or other infrastructure projects. While this method is not officially supported by Nintendo and can have unintended consequences, it is worth mentioning for those who are comfortable with it.

• How Time Travel Works: By changing the date and time settings on your Nintendo Switch, you can fast-forward in the game, causing construction projects to complete instantly.

• Risks: Time travel can disrupt certain in-game events, such as turnip prices or seasonal activities. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons before deciding to use this method.

9. Multiplayer Assistance

If you’re playing with friends or family, you can enlist their help to cross water. Here’s how multiplayer can assist in navigating your island:

• Visiting Other Islands: By visiting another player’s island, you can explore their bridges and waterways, gaining inspiration for your own island.

• Assistance with Construction: If you’re struggling to build a bridge or terraform your island, a friend can help by donating resources or offering advice.

10. The Role of Imagination

Finally, it’s important to remember that Animal Crossing is a game that thrives on creativity and imagination. While the methods listed above provide practical solutions for crossing water, don’t be afraid to think outside the box and come up with your own unique ideas. Whether it’s creating a story around a magical bridge or designing a hidden path through the trees, the possibilities are endless.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I swim in rivers and ponds, or is it only possible in the ocean?

A1: Swimming is only possible in the ocean. Rivers and ponds are too shallow for swimming, so you’ll need to use a Vaulting Pole or bridge to cross them.

Q2: How many bridges can I build on my island?

A2: The number of bridges you can build depends on your island’s layout and the space available. There is no strict limit, but you’ll need to ensure that each bridge has enough room to be placed properly.

Q3: Can I move a bridge after it’s been built?

A3: Yes, you can move a bridge, but it will cost you the same amount of Bells as building a new one. You’ll need to speak to Tom Nook at Resident Services to initiate the move.

Q4: Is there a way to cross water without using any tools or bridges?

A4: While tools and bridges are the most common methods, you can also use terraforming to reshape your island’s waterways, making them easier to navigate. Additionally, swimming in the ocean can sometimes provide an alternative route.

Q5: Can I use the Rescue Service to cross water?

A5: The Rescue Service is primarily designed to help you if you’re stuck or lost on your island. While it can transport you to a different location, it’s not a practical method for regularly crossing water.

In conclusion, crossing water in Animal Crossing: New Horizons can be achieved through a variety of methods, each with its own advantages and creative potential. Whether you prefer the simplicity of the Vaulting Pole, the permanence of bridges, or the adventurous spirit of swimming, there’s a solution for every player. By experimenting with these techniques and incorporating your own imaginative ideas, you can make your island truly unique and enjoyable to explore.