Supplemental Financial Information - Effect of Changes in Other Assets and Liabilities on Cash Flows from Operating Activities (Detail) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017
Operating Capital [Line Items]
Total net change in assets and liabilities	$ (33,524)	$ 27,950
Noble-UK
Operating Capital [Line Items]
Accounts receivable	(7,533)	76,495
Other current assets	6,534	15,896
Other assets	(15,049)	(40,078)
Accounts payable	1,014	(8,881)
Other current liabilities	(10,094)	(19,385)
Other liabilities	(8,396)	3,903
Total net change in assets and liabilities	(33,524)	27,950
Noble-Cayman
Operating Capital [Line Items]
Accounts receivable	(7,533)	76,495
Other current assets	5,962	12,475
Other assets	(12,426)	(47,166)
Accounts payable	993	(8,754)
Other current liabilities	(9,680)	(18,293)
Other liabilities	(8,396)	10,747
Total net change in assets and liabilities	$ (31,080)	$ 25,504