Betty Compson originally played the second lead, but after several trial runs, it was decided that the film was too dark. Her dramatic part was cut and replaced by lighter fare featuring Dorothy Sebastian and Paulette Duval.
In 1932 MGM wanted to remake the property as a showcase for Jean Harlow. They tried borrowing Victor McLaglen for the lead, but Fox refused. Metro then announced Clark Gable as star, but ultimately the film was not made.
Four feet of 2-strip Technicolor film depicts a sunset in Reel #5.
Cinematographer Ira H. Morgan tried some experimental lighting in this film, in an attempt to replace makeup. He used blue light to soften a ruddy complexion and red light to shade a face.
Although the action is supposed to take place twelve miles out on the Atlantic Ocean, Director Jack Conway shot the scenes 100 miles out on the Pacific.