Tracking down salt in Subnautica 2 is a necessity for any diver looking to expand their reach. This mineral is a vital ingredient for crafting the Power Cell, which you need to build the Tadpole vehicle. Without this mini-sub, your exploration of the alien ocean is severely limited, leaving you vulnerable to abyssal horrors you cannot outrun.
While salt can also be used to craft jerky, it is generally considered a waste of resources since regular food does not spoil and offers similar hunger replenishment. Instead, focus on acquiring salt for its primary role in vehicle construction. Here is exactly where to find it.
Early Game Salt Locations
The most efficient way to gather salt early in the game is near your starting point. A cave located roughly 200 meters to the southeast of the Lifepod contains a reliable supply. This area is also significant because it holds Chap’s black box, which the New Oceanic Authority (NOA) directs you to locate after recovering Anita’s black box.
To reach this deposit:
- Head southeast from the Lifepod.
- Pass the Welcome Center on your right.
- Enter the area featuring two pillars and a Giant Coral Crab on the left.
- Look to your right for a pillar with a standing light at its base.
- Enter the small cave at the base of this pillar.
Inside this cave, you will find Chap’s habitat and his black box. More importantly, there are two pieces of salt available. You can identify salt easily; it resembles a ball of light orange squares, similar to mashed crisps formed into a sphere.
Good to know: This salt respawns over time, meaning you can return to this cave for more resources as needed.
Advanced Salt Hunting in Volcanic Zones
Once you have met your immediate power cell requirements, you can seek salt in more dangerous territories. Salt deposits are commonly found on the sandy ground in the volcanic vent area located far to the east of the Lifepod. Additionally, you can find it in the deeper regions surrounding The Great Jaw to the southwest.
In these zones, salt may be scattered on the ground or hidden inside caves within the volcanic region. However, venturing this far requires preparation. You must first unlock the Heat Tolerance adaptation to survive the extreme temperatures of the volcanic vents. Without this upgrade, exposure to the heat will be fatal before you can gather the resources.
Why Salt Matters for Your Fleet
Securing salt is not just about survival; it is about progression. The Tadpole is your first step into true deep-sea exploration, allowing you to access areas previously out of reach. By prioritizing the collection of salt in the early caves and eventually braving the volcanic vents, you ensure you have the materials needed to craft the necessary Power Cells.
Remember to always check your O2 levels and consider building bases in strategic locations to support your growing fleet. Whether you are mining metals with a Sonic Resonator or using the Wakemaker to swim faster, every component of your gear relies on the resources you gather from the seabed.
