INCA fashions a shorter, more affordable Galápagos optionINCA fashions a shorter, more affordable Galápagos option

For almost 40 years, INCA has been crafting Galápagos journeys and currently offers 11 different itineraries that include the protected archipelago.

'Darwin Isles' features a night in Quito, one night in the Galápagos on Santa Cruz Island to see giant tortoises in the wild and the Charles Darwin Research Station and an eight-day, seven-night cruise aboard the deluxe 90-foot yacht Reina Silvia, with all meals, sightseeing and excursions. The program is priced starting at $6,095 per person, double occupancy. For the Dec. 15 and 22 departures, prices begin at $7,095,

All INCA's Galápagos programs are custom-crafted, limited to 16 travelers and guided by expert naturalists.

Since INCA travelers arrive in Ecuador late in the evening and depart early the next day for the Galápagos Islands, INCA has arranged accommodations at the 45-room Rincón de Puembo, a garden-filled oasis located near the Quito airport. On Santa Cruz, travelers stay at the eco-friendly Galápagos Suites in the main town of Puerto Ayora, close to restaurants, bars and dive shops and the Darwin Research Station.

The 'Darwin Isles' adventure includes all yacht and hotel accommodations, all meals on the yacht and as specified on the itinerary, all non-alcoholic beverages and draft beer on the yacht, guides, activities, tours and sightseeing arrangements and use of kayaks and snorkel equipment on board. Airport transfers are included, too. Airfares, airport taxes and fees, Galápagos National Park Fee, transit tax, tips for yacht crews, guides or naturalist, wetsuits and other items of a personal nature are extra.  

On request, Reina Silvia has the option of a triple share stateroom for $4,695, per person, or $5,495 per person for the Dec. 15 and 22 departures.

INCA is a long-time partner of the Galápagos Conservancy and operates the organization's annual Galápagos cruise.