Hi Mr Roo
Welcome to the dark side.
Mate of mine who is a very good surfer, but a large gent like yourself, rides the Starboard 10' whopper when the surf is small and the 9' whopper when there is some size. Another mate also has the 10 footer and is a beginner and has been catching waves as well. He is also your build.
The JP wide body would be similar so I would guess that it would suit you.
Good luck with it all and ENJOY!!!!