Doug, you are at a stage in life where you have more money than time. You and your wife are both working, bringing in income. That makes your time limited.
For you right now going quicker more often is the right thing to do.
At some point things will change. You will retire and have more time than money. Then you might choose to go slower, enjoy the sights more, and save some money on fuel costs.
Some here have indicated that fuel costs are a small part of boating. That is correct if you are a weekender, but not if you choose a cruising lifestyle in retirement. Then the difference in fuel costs over the long term can be staggering.
Great post!