Wreck of the SS City of Rio de Janeiro

Known as the 'Titanic of the Golden Gate,' this passenger steamship sank in 1901 after striking a rocky ledge near Fort Point in a dense fog. Rumors immediately spread that the ship was carrying a secret shipment of silver bullion and gold coins destined for China, valued up to $6 million. In 2014, NOAA used sonar and remotely operated vehicles to locate the collapsed hull under 287 feet of water and heavy silt, but no treasure has ever been recovered.

Open in interactive map Open source record

Record typeshipwreck

LocationEntrance of the Golden Gate, San Francisco Bay

Probability indexLow

Land statusState Park / Marine Sanctuary (Restricted)

Research coordinates37.8177, -122.4836

SourceNOAA Office of National Marine Sanctuaries - City of Rio de Janeiro shipwreck discovery

Field Research Notes

The wreck is located in a dangerous, high-traffic shipping lane with extremely strong tidal currents, low visibility, and deep mud. Salvaging or diving the wreck is strictly prohibited without state permits.

Recommended Gear

Sidescan Sonar, Magnetometer, ROV with Claw, Deep Dive Suit

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