Frank Future steps down from whale-watching business to return to painting
Frank Future, 72, is stepping down from whale-watching business Imagine Cruises after founding it.
Future arrived at Port Stephens more than 35 years ago. Future worked as a lighthouse caretaker.
Future spotted whales from Fingal Island. Future chose tourism over isolation.
Frank Future founded Imagine Cruises in 1995 with partner Yves Papin. The business changed course in the late 1990s.
A white whale named Migaloo appeared. Footage went viral.
Bookings followed. Future is stepping down as director.
But he will remain as a skipper during the change. He plans to return to painting.
It was his original passion. He legally changed his name to Frank Future by deed poll in 1988.
Adam and Ellie Wiltshire are taking the helm. They have worked with him since their school days.
Future remains deeply concerned about Port Stephens' marine environment. About 79 turtles were lost last year.
The dolphin population is declining. He largely blames jet-skis.
- Frank Future, age 72
- Founder
- Imagine Cruises, 1995
- Business founded
- Yves Papin
- Partner
- Adam and Ellie Wiltshire
- New directors
Why it mattersA pioneering ecotourism operator passes his legacy to the next generation. This shows continuity for Port Stephens' whale and dolphin-watching industry.
AustraliaPort Stephens tourism and marine conservation affected; Future's long advocacy for environmental protection continues under new leadership.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 1 h ago
