dcolvey wrote:
Any comments or recomendations would be appreciated.

VHF Marine radios can't be used for non-marine applications.

Are you and the people with whom you're going to be communicating all
licensed amateur radio operators? If so, then VHF handhelds with
external antennas are probably your best choice for range. They are of
course considerably more expensive than FRS or GMRS radios.

If you aren't licensed then MURS radios are probably the best compromise
of price, durability, and range. You'll need an FCC license for these,
but no test is required.