The Mediterranean’s oldest offshore sailboat race that started in 1953 is back for another go between the ports of Sanremo, Italy, St. Tropez, France and Genoa, Italy.

The 263 nautical mile race is named for the Giraglia rock off the northern tip of Corsica, by which the sailors will pass on their way to Genoa.

The first leg starts Friday, June 12 from Sanremo and the fleet-which is expected to exceed 200 yachts as often occurs-will then gather in the Saint-Tropez harbor for three days of inshore racing from June 14 to 16.

The most anticipated leg starts in Saint-Tropez on June 17, heading directly to Genoa via the Giraglia rock.

Both amateur and professional sailors from the Mediterranean regions of France and Italy are expected to take part. Defending champion is Swiss yacht “Tixwave,” a Swan 42 skippered by Bernard Vananty.

The fastest finish time belongs to Igor Simcic’s 100-foot Maxi “Esimit Europa 2,” who made it to Genoa in 14 hours, 56 minutes and 16 seconds in 2012. So far, the biggest fleet the regatta has seen is 220 in 2010.

Follow the race online: www.yachtclubitaliano.it