Supplemental Financial Information - Effect of Changes in Other Assets and Liabilities on Cash Flows from Operating Activities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]
Accounts payable		$ (14,625)	$ (68,209)
Net change in other assets and liabilities	$ (34,940)	(21,225)	90,309
Noble-UK
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]
Accounts receivable	3,974	114,456	179,779
Other current assets	(2,722)	26,155	81,657
Other assets	(10,378)	(89,021)	138,210
Accounts payable	14,955	(14,625)	(68,209)
Other current liabilities	(13,940)	33,906	(209,739)
Other liabilities	(26,829)	(92,096)	(31,389)
Net change in other assets and liabilities	(34,940)	(21,225)	90,309
Noble - Cayman
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]
Accounts receivable	3,974	114,456	179,779
Other current assets	(2,700)	23,309	79,720
Other assets	(6,424)	(91,236)	136,130
Accounts payable	14,795	(14,429)	(66,421)
Other current liabilities	(13,495)	35,033	(203,763)
Other liabilities	(26,829)	(87,213)	(32,732)
Net change in other assets and liabilities	$ (30,679)	$ (20,080)	$ 92,713