Brian,
I suspect the reason that you've not received a prompt reply to your question
is because the traditional way, and the BEST way, to get the answer is to your
self measure the length of the cable that is now installed in your boat.
I've done that myself and one "trick" that might be helpful is to use a piece of
rope, cotton clothsline rope is ideal, and carefully string it along the existing old
cable from one end to the other. This is much easier than trying to do the same
with a steel tape measure. Then simply measure your rope. You can use masking
tape to secure your rope at the beginning end and as you proceed so that your
measurement is totally accurate.
The other method, as you've already anticipated, is to remove the old cable and
order the identical length replacement.
I personally would not take any persons advice about what length cable will fit
my boat. You need an EXACT length fit - and nothing else !
Hope this helps