Legal

Terms & Conditions

Last updated: July 24, 2026

This page is maintained by Vertex Yachts to outline the terms that apply when you use our website, request information, or book a private yacht charter with us. Please read these terms carefully.

1. Acceptance of terms

By accessing our website, submitting an inquiry, or completing a booking, you agree to these Terms & Conditions and our Privacy Policy. If you do not agree, please do not use our services.

2. Services

Vertex Yachts offers private luxury yacht charters on Lake Michigan, departing from 31st Street Harbor in Chicago, Illinois. Charters are seasonal, typically operating from June 1 through October 31, subject to weather, Coast Guard regulations, and vessel availability.

All charters are private and accommodate a maximum of 12 guests unless otherwise arranged in writing with our concierge team.

3. Booking, pricing, and payment

  • Charters are billed at the hourly rates displayed on our website, with a minimum charge period as described at the time of booking.
  • A deposit is required to confirm a reservation. The remaining balance is typically charged automatically seven days before the charter date.
  • For charters booked within seven days of the departure date, the full charter amount may be charged upfront.
  • Premium dates, custom itineraries, extra-hour requests, and limited-duration charters may require written approval and a custom invoice before confirmation.
  • Payments are processed securely through Stripe. By completing payment, you authorize us to charge the selected payment method for the agreed amount.

4. Cancellations and rescheduling

Cancellation and rescheduling policies vary based on the timing and nature of the booking. Please contact our concierge team for the specific terms that apply to your reservation. We strive to be fair and will work with you when weather or unforeseen circumstances affect your charter.

5. Guest conduct and safety

  • All guests must follow the captain's instructions and comply with applicable maritime laws.
  • Illegal activity, excessive intoxication, or behavior that endangers the vessel, crew, or other guests is prohibited and may result in termination of the charter without refund.
  • Guests are responsible for any damage caused by their party to the vessel or its equipment.

6. Limitation of liability

Vertex Yachts is not liable for delays, cancellations, or changes caused by weather, mechanical issues, government action, or other circumstances beyond our reasonable control. Our total liability for any claim arising from a charter is limited to the amount paid for that charter.

7. Intellectual property

All content on this website, including photography, video, text, logos, and design, is owned by Vertex Yachts or used under license. You may not reproduce, distribute, or use our content for commercial purposes without prior written permission.

8. Third-party services

We use trusted third-party providers for payments (Stripe), SMS messaging (Twilio), hosting, and email delivery. Your use of those services is also subject to their respective terms and privacy policies.

9. Governing law

These Terms & Conditions are governed by the laws of the State of Illinois, without regard to conflict-of-law principles. Any disputes will be resolved in the state or federal courts located in Cook County, Illinois.

10. Changes to these terms

We may update these Terms & Conditions at any time. The most current version will be posted on this page with an updated effective date. Continued use of our website or services after changes are posted constitutes acceptance of the revised terms.

11. Contact us

If you have questions about these Terms & Conditions, please contact us: