I agree that was very well said. However, most people will have different viewpoints and perspectives on this matter anyways.

I also agree with you....

for Big Blocks, now for the 60 hp Johnson o/b on the back on my 15' Boston Whaler, that is another story

28 Daytona twin 496 mags
top speed 90 @ 4900 rpm
Cruise 70 @ 4000 rpm

37 Spectre twin Yanmar diesels
top speed 55 @ 3800 rpm
cruise 38 @ 2900 rpm
Fast cruise 45 @ 3300 rpm

The eliminator had to be going over 50 to ride well, no tunnel spray ect, and fuel economy was the same from 40 to 70 so usual speed was 70.

the spectre i usually run around 38 upper 40's if i am in a hurry, I can run those diesels forever at 3400 rpm, but economy is better around 38. I know it's dead slow compared to a go fast but different kind of boat, although it does ride better as you speed up!

We did agree you cover my fuel bill for the first month of owning the boat. I am sure we will go throw a few gallons the first weekend out at LOTO. See you tomorrow.

What ever you come up with just keep in mind motors don't like to stay at the same RPM for long periods of time. Move that stick around every now and then.

For me and my Baja, cruise speed depends on safety and comfort of passengers.

For my pontoon.....wfo all day long............. "Are we there yet"

A lot of it depends on the build of the motor. I know mine have a 6100 limiter so I think 4000 or right below is a good cruise....

My boat likes 3500-4000 better.

depends on the boat + power. For our 388, 3500 rpms seems to work real well. In the hdrostream, it's about 3000 rpms, but it's a mod-tunnel hull also.

It varies for all. I run with twin outboards that do not like low RPM's. My top end is 5900-6100 RPM's, but I cruise at 5400-5700. The motors are made for that. 5 boats ago, I would cruise at 4000 with a Merc outboard. It all depends.