The 2009 PSP Southampton Boat Show will be opened by Sophie Ellis-Bextor on Friday 11 September. The glamorous singer will officially kick off the 10-day marine extravaganza featuring the best of boating, watersports and lifestyle.

Sophie will sail into Mayflower Park aboard the dazzling new Princess 78 motor yacht, which will receive her global debut at the Show, to greet assembled photographers for a photo call on the marina at 10:00 hrs.

At 11:00 hrs Sophie will host the Show’s official opening on the Record Breaker Stage. She will pose for photographs and chat to the Show compere before cutting the ribbon and declaring the 2009 PSP Southampton Boat Show open.

Currently recording her fourth studio album, Sophie, a mother of two, will take time throughout the morning to explore some of the 1,000 boats and 500 exhibitors on display at the Show.

Andrew Williams, managing director of National Boat Shows (NBS), said: “We are thoroughly looking forward to welcoming Sophie Ellis-Bextor to the PSP Southampton Boat Show. I am sure that her bright personality, charm and classic style will provide the perfect start to a fantastic 41st Show.”

The PSP Southampton Boat Show is the UK’s leading outdoor social event showcasing boating, watersports and lifestyle with almost 1,000 boats (over 300 on water) and 500 exhibitors throughout the 10-day marine extravaganza.