[jclark003]

Congratulations on the boat. I am not a 36 owner but will throw my 2 cents in. There is a lot of variables in determining best cruise speed (engine longevity, speed, fuel burn). As you will find reading other posts before locking in on your cruise RPM you need to make sure you are not overloading you engines which will greatly reduce the time before overhaul. I believe the 3208 needs to hit a rated speed of 2800 RPM (WOT under load), ideally between 2800 - 2850 at full gross weight (recommend you verify that number with your Cat dealer). If Cat publishes 2400 as cruising RPM and your props let you get to published rated RPM then have at it. A good prop shop can help you maximize your speed while still achieving rated RPM. From there start measuring your fuel burn numbers so you make informed decisions on how hard to run given the situation. Provided you follow the engine maintenance schedule longevity will not matter much if you operate within those parameters. Hope that helps.