The Soho House, particularly the Wakins, was the go-to spot for top producers and directors.
This trend started with the first Soho House in London in 1995, and annual Soho House Yacht events for members during the Cannes Film Festival were a staple from at least 1997, as documented on the Soho House website since 2003. Notably, Harvey Weinstein, a notorious figure in the industry, has been an active Soho House member since at least 2003, attending yacht parties.
The Soho House yachting scene has been associated with hedonistic parties, and information about it is not as readily available online these days. However, recent mentions of a Soho House yacht in 2023 suggest that such events continue to be a part of the Soho House experience.
The Cannes Film Festival is known for its lavish parties, often held on yachts due to France's strict anti-prostitution laws. Reports indicate that these parties attract not only industry professionals but also professional sex workers and aspiring actresses seeking connections with influential figures.
Despite the glamorous façade, there have been reports of predatory and abusive behavior at some of these parties. Show business journalist Jessica Cullen, in a 2009 article on Celebrity Hedonism during the Cannes Film Festival, specifically mentions the Soho House yacht.
The article describes drug use, questionable antics, and the lengths some aspiring stars go to gain fame. Aboard the Soho House yacht, surprising scenes unfold, including the involvement of well-known personalities in buying drugs and making promises of fame.
The Cannes Film Festival's reputation as a hub for extravagant parties, fueled by substances and indulgence, has been well-documented. The Soho House yacht, as a part of this scene, becomes a microcosm of the excesses and controversies that characterize the festival.
Furthermore, there have been persistent rumors linking Meghan Markle to yachting, given her known affinity for seaside locations, her association with the Soho House, and her extensive travel history. While these rumors may be speculative, they add another layer to the intriguing dynamics of the entertainment industry and high-profile events like the Cannes Film Festival.
