I used one to/from the Swan - it was about $13.00 plus a tip. Anytime you use a cab, assume $20.00 each way. It can be pricey.
From your hotel, either catch one right outside the door (they usually are waiting for fares) or have the front desk call one for you. Ask about how much it is before you get in - say "for two people" (some cab companies try to tell you "oh, that was per person"....not necessarily in Orlando, but I've seen it in other cities). You will probably get the standard "it's metered answer" - ask "can you make an approximate guess?" Some companies will do a round trip fee (you have to either call them when you are ready to be picked up OR have a preset time/place to meet them). You are trusting them to be there when you need them.
From PI, the cabs are usually hanging around outside near the buses. I just waved at one and they came and picked us up. Just don't leave too late (at closing) and you might want to take the phone number of a cab company with you so you can have one called if you need to. If you are stranded, consider taking one of the Disney buses to the Swan/Dolphin (free) and have the bell hops call you a cab there to get back to your hotel.
Another option is to get a rate quote from Happy Limo for a town car
www.happylimo.com - They would be more dependable. Might cost a little more (or not, I'm not sure - usually they are comparable to cabs, but worlds better in service). Ask them if you could get a discount with code OTP1277 (might only be good on roundtrips to/from the airport though - code is from Orlando Trip Planner.com)
hope this helps.
By the way, usually when you leave PI there are employees near the turnstyles. If you don't see the cabs, ask about them as you leave and ask how you can call one if you need to.
I don't have an answer to your question...just impressed with your post
