PTWoody said..
This is a tough one to answer. The board length you are seeking is traditionally a wave board rather than a board that will go fast on essentially flat water, though taking account of the ferry wake that you mention. Are you assuming that the 9'6" board will be faster or more appropriate than your 14' inflatable? Because I doubt that it would be.
Actually, there is not that much ferry wake... I guess what I really meant is that I need a faster board to get across the harbour without being run over by one of them! lol ;)
I am not sure a shorter board would be faster than the 14" inflatable I have, but I guess I just wanted to make sure any shorter board I get is hopefully at least as fast? :)
Thanks!