How To Get To Vlasoff Cay From Cairns
Vlasoff Cay is a gorgeous sand bar located on Vlasoff Reef in the Great Barrier Reef near Cairns. It's a unique place that doesn't even look real! Imagine a pristine strip of silky white sand surrounded by vibrant sapphire water and wildlife-filled coral reefs. This place is literally paradise on Earth, and it's just a short distance from Cairns! Here are some tips for how to get to Vlasoff Cay from Cairns, as well as recommendations for what to do when you get there.
Where is Vlasoff Cay?
Vlasoff Cay is located on the Great Barrier Reef’s outer edge, approximately 37 kms northeast of Cairns and just north of Green Island. It's 1 of the 300 sand islands (or 'cays') that make up the Great Barrier Reef's 3800 islands. Vlasoff's sands are pure, blinding white, and it's truly a spectacle to behold from above. Picture a bleached sliver of sandbank contrasted by the cobalt-turquoise waters that shimmer around it.
Explore more of the islands near Cairns with one of these tours!
How to get to Vlasoff Cay
The easiest way to get to Vlasoff Cay from Cairns is in a helicopter! Reaching this hidden oasis presents somewhat of a challenge for those wanting to comb the sands and reefs. Whilst some locals travel to the cay via privately owned jet skis or boats, there currently aren’t any boat tours available for groups. The easiest way for visitors to access Vlasoff Cay is via a privately chartered helicopter.
Due to the exclusivity and off-the-beaten-track nature of Vlasoff, we think a glamorous arrival by chopper is the way to go. Nautilus Aviation offers all that, plus a gourmet picnic, sparkling wine, beach chairs and umbrellas, and snorkeling gear! With all these fabulous activities and inclusions you're guaranteed to experience the best of Vlasoff's secluded paradise.
What to do at Vlasoff Cay
Once you make it to the breathtaking Vlasoff Cay, you can have a fun-filled day soaking in the sun and admiring the untouched natural beauty here. From swimming and sunbathing to snorkelling and getting up close to all the tropical underwater creatures and corals, here are the best things to do at Vlasoff Cay near Cairns.
Relax with a Picnic
Thanks to Vlasoff’s relatively difficult access, the serene sand island is one of the most exclusive and secluded spots on the Great Barrier Reef. Pack a little hamper of refreshing treats to enjoy on the crisp white sands as you and your loved ones soak up the sun. The solitude and stunning panoramic views of clear blue water also make it ideal for a romantic day trip, and an unforgettable location to propose!
Snorkel the Waters of Vlasoff Reef
Vlasoff's reef extends for several hundred metres beyond the cay. This section of the Great Barrier Reef is in extremely good health and has high visibility. Bring your snorkeling gear and underwater camera and explore the crystal clear waters' large coral bommies teeming with marine life.
Go Fishing
Vlasoff's Cay and Reef fall into the Marine Park's 'yellow' category, meaning some fishing activities are permitted here! Line fishing, spear fishing (snorkel only), trapping crabs, bait netting and trolling are all free game in these waters. Name a better way to spend a day under the sun! However, be mindful that surrounding reefs like Norman and Hastings prohibit fishing of any kind — so don't go casting your net or aiming your spear too far!
Go Swimming
Last but not least, just enjoy a peaceful dip in the warm, clear waters around Vlasoff Cay. The Great Barrier Reef blocks any swell from coming this far in, so the water is flat and calm. No matter what your age or fitness level, you can paddle around in the refreshing waters at Vlasoff Cay and just cherish every moment of being in paradise!
