Wreck of the Frolic

The Frolic was a fast Baltimore clipper ship engaged in the illicit opium trade between China and California. In July 1850, carrying a cargo of Chinese silks, porcelain, and household goods, she ran aground on the rocks just north of Mendocino. The wreck is famous because its salvage attempt led to the discovery of the giant redwood forests of Mendocino, sparking the local lumber boom. The wreck lies in shallow water and is a designated archaeological reserve.

Open in interactive map Open source record

Record typeshipwreck

LocationPoint Cabrillo, Mendocino County

Probability indexHigh

Land statusState Park (Restricted)

Research coordinates39.3561, -123.8264

SourceMendocino County Museum - The Frolic Exhibit

Field Research Notes

Diving is permitted around Point Cabrillo Reserve, but it is illegal to touch, move, or salvage any materials from the shipwreck. The Mendocino County Museum houses many of the recovered Chinese artifacts.

Recommended Gear

Snorkeling Mask, Underwater Camera, Dive Flag

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