"From what I have read HAM radios are monitored by different people and organizations and that there is coverage between Boston and New York, that HAM radio can be used to gather information and relay important messages if other means don’t work."
Where did you read all that at 
Hello everyone.
Regardless of activity, whenever I am in a planning process I do as much research as I can; this is especially true if I am unfamiliar with an element of the plan.
In this case, a back-up communication source.
HAM radio, Satellite phone, second marine radio and other means of communications are on the list.
I begin by searching for associations, enthusiast sites, forums and YouTube relating to the information I need. E.g., ARRL, QRZ.com, eHAM etc.
I wrote to ARRL national and regional and have not heard back.
They may offer better insight.
.
Sort through all of it and try to come to a conclusion
It is unlikely that amateur radio will work for me.
My lack of experience, the learning curve, multiple formats and no guarantee if I call anyone will answer are my reasons. More importantly though I have learned some; I misunderstood how day to day amateur radio operates.
I have solid skills in many areas; other areas, not so good. My colleague (radio guy) would give me a radio and tell me “don’t touch anything, push the button and talk.”
I guess I am looking for that kind of simplicity.
For now, the plan is my primary marine radio, secondary full power marine radio in a Pelican Box, portable marine radio, cell phone. I am also installing a small secondary power source on board.
Thank you everyone for the information and courtesy.
I’ll probably stick around for a bit.
Comments or questions are always welcome.
Take care,
Garv