MINNEAPOLIS - Capt. Cory Parkos grew up near Northeast Minneapolis, always fond of the Mississippi River. He felt at ease on the water.
About five years ago, it dawned on him that this city needed a water taxi service on the river.
So this year, Parkos is officially turning that dream into action. After a trial run last year, Minneapolis Taxi Service is now offering daily rides from Boom Island Park, taking passengers on a northbound route toward St. Anthony Falls and the Lowry Avenue bridge.
"Giving people the chance to get on the river is like a public service for me," Parkos said. "I show people how to keep the river clean."
Parkos said he believes Minneapolis Taxi Service is the first of its kind in the city.
The small boat fits six people, costing $10 per person if the ride is full.
"Different groups from families, to friends, out having fun...everyone seems to enjoy it," Parkos said. "People that want to come out again decide to make weekly routes, weekly tours."
Interestingly enough, the electric boat runs on solar power. Parkos' co-captain installed solar panels, meaning the sun essentially serves as a charger for the boat during the day.
"It pretty much runs off the sun," Parkos said.
And on this Friday afternoon, with three passengers aboard the boat, there was plenty of sunshine. That certainly helped the view on the way back, which offers a beautiful glimpse of the Minneapolis skyline.
"You'll see a sight of the city that's not often seen," Parkos said. "A different perspective."