Californian is a 1984 replica of the United States Revenue Marine cutter Lawrence, which operated off the coast of California in the 1850s.

Originally built and operated as a sailing school vessel based in Newport Beach.

[4] The model for her figurehead was actress Catherine Bach, who was chosen as she was descended from one of the state's early families.

The California Coastal Conservancy provided the Maritime Museum of San Diego with a US$300,000 grant to complete restoration of the Californian in February 2003.

After the overhaul was completed in August 2003 Californian returned to providing sail training and sea educational programs up and down the California coast.