Raft is a popular co-op survival experience on the ocean, but the default host model through Steam has its limits: the host must be online and the player count is restricted. A dedicated server runs Raft independently, so friends can log in at any time, even when you are not playing.
How does a Raft dedicated server work?
Redbeet Interactive added dedicated server support to Raft, allowing you to run a server separately from a game client. The server handles the world, crafting and survival mechanics. Players connect via IP address and port. The main advantage is that the server runs 24/7, so everyone can keep building your floating base at their own pace.
Installation via SteamCMD
Like most game servers, you install the Raft Dedicated Server through SteamCMD. Log in with your Steam account (anonymous login is not supported for Raft) and install:
app_update 648800 validateMake sure the Steam account owns a valid Raft license, because the server files require one. After the download, the server files are in the installation directory.
Configuration and loading a world
The Raft server loads an existing save game. You start the server with a reference to your save file. Key startup parameters:
- World name: path to your save game.
- Max players: default 8, adjustable as needed.
- Game mode: Normal, Hard, Creative or Peaceful.
- Password: protect your server from uninvited guests.
To continue an existing single-player or co-op game on the dedicated server, copy the save to the server. Saves are stored on Windows at %AppData%/LocalLow/Redbeet Interactive/Raft/.
Port forwarding
Raft uses UDP port 27015 for game traffic and TCP/UDP port 27016 for Steam queries. On a home network, forward these ports in your router to the IP of the machine running the server. On a VPS or hosted game server, the ports are already reachable as long as your firewall allows them. Test with an online port checker after setup.
Save management
Back up your save game regularly. The server overwrites the save file on each save action, so a crash or corruption can cause data loss. Copy the save folder to a separate location, preferably daily. On Linux you can automate this with a cron job.
Performance and stability
Raft is not particularly demanding on a server. For 4 to 8 players, 4 GB RAM and 2 CPU cores are more than enough. The game becomes heavier as your raft grows: a raft with hundreds of parts requires more processing power. Keep your raft manageable or upgrade your hardware when you notice performance dropping.
Can friends continue my save on a dedicated server?
Yes. Copy your existing save to the server and point the startup parameters to that save file. All progress, including your raft, inventory and discovered areas, carries over. Players who previously played on the same save keep their characters if the Steam IDs match.
How many players can a Raft server handle?
The default max is 8 players. In practice the game runs best with 4 to 6 players. More players increase server load, especially when everyone is exploring new areas or building on the raft at the same time. For larger groups, having extra RAM available is wise.
Do I need a Steam license for the server?
Yes, unlike many other game servers the Raft Dedicated Server requires the SteamCMD login account to own a valid Raft license. You cannot download the server as anonymous. This is a restriction from the developer, not from SteamCMD itself.
Not interested in port forwarding and technical setup? HostValues game hosting handles the infrastructure so you can focus on building and surviving.
