Hollow Knight Silksong Deep Docks Walkthrough & Guide
The Deep Docks in Hollow Knight Silksong is one of the first real spikes in challenge, pushing players to master movement and combat. This molten, mechanical area is home to tough enemies, hidden upgrades, and key progression abilities. Most importantly, it is where Hornet unlocks the Swift Step dash, making it one of the most critical regions in the early game.
How to Start Deep Docks
When entering Deep Docks, unlock the first bench by paying 30 Rosaries. This ensures a safe checkpoint. From there, find Shakra the map maker and purchase the Deep Docks map for 50 Rosaries. Before moving deeper, unlock the Fast Travel point nearby for another 50 Rosaries. These three steps set up your navigation and recovery for the area.
Exploring North
Climb the large central chamber, pulling levers to open new paths. Push upward through enemies and lava hazards until you reach the top-right exit. This leads to a smaller section with more enemies and eventually to another bench for safety.
Hunter’s March Connection
Climbing higher temporarily leads to a sealed-off portion of Hunter’s March. Here, Hornet fights waves of ant enemies and finds a Frayed Rosary String. This area loops back down into Deep Docks, giving both lore and rewards.
Unlocking Swift Step
Continuing west through the lower passages eventually brings you to a shrine. Binding here unlocks the Swift Step ability, which grants dash and sprint. This skill is essential for both platforming and combat, letting Hornet dodge attacks and cross large gaps.
Rescue the Second Flea
After gaining Swift Step, use it to climb the high metal platforms nearby. At the top, free a trapped Flea to progress side content. Be sure to also unlock the shortcut here, connecting back to the starting bench.
Exploring South
Heading right from Shakra’s location, pull a lever to open new southern paths. This section includes hazards like burning coals and black slimes. Careful navigation rewards you with a Spool Fragment to increase max Silk, along with a hidden chest of Shell Shards.
Meeting Forge Daughter
Near the end of the southern routes, Hornet faces an enemy gauntlet. Beating it unlocks access to Forge Daughter, a new NPC smith. She sells Crafting Kits that boost the damage of tools, making her a vital vendor for long-term upgrades.
Boss Fight: Lace
The climax of Deep Docks is the battle with Lace, a fast and aggressive sword fighter. She counters pogo attacks and punishes greedy combos, forcing patience. In her second phase, she uses rapid dash moves centered on glowing points of light. Watch for these markers and keep distance until safe. Beating Lace unlocks the path forward into the Far Fields region.
Final Blurb
The Deep Docks is where Hollow Knight Silksong begins to show its true difficulty. From unlocking Swift Step to battling Lace, the area tests both patience and precision. It is a compact but crucial region that sets the tone for Hornet’s deeper journey into Pharloom.
FAQ
Where do you find the map for Deep Docks?
You can buy it from Shakra the map maker near the entrance for 50 Rosaries.
What ability do you unlock in Deep Docks?
Hornet unlocks Swift Step, which allows dash and sprint.
Who is Forge Daughter?
Forge Daughter is a smith NPC in Deep Docks who sells Crafting Kits to improve tools.
Who is the boss of Deep Docks?
The boss is Lace, a fast and deadly swordmaster.
What collectible is found here?
You can get a Spool Fragment, which increases your maximum Silk.

