Wow, you're over-propped by at least 700 rpm! Surprised that a full tank of gas and extra person made that much difference, but that's why Fr. Frank always says to test props with the max load you intend to carry. You definitely need less pitch; maybe a 3B might be better for you if you want a high speed cruise, but I still think you need some stern lift with a relatively heavy motor on a small boat. Maybe try a 15" pitch 3B Rebel prop, which has a lot of blade area, hangs on plane well and has good stern lift. Too bad we don't live closer . . . you could try my 15x15 4B prop. I can only turn it to 5450, but the optimum rpm for my 2007 motor is 5400-5500. You could probably turn it faster on a lighter boat.
Did you get a look at the AV plate to see if it's dry on plane? If motor is mounted too low, that might get you another 100 rpm or so. Also what was your min-planing speed with that prop? Suggest you send a PM to forum member Keys Cruz, who is also running a 150 E-Tec on an 18 to see what prop he's running. He lives close to you when he's not living on his trawler in the Keys.
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