Earnings Per Share - Computation of Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Income from operations less noncontrolling interests	$ (49,953)	$ 20,553
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to McDermott International, Inc.	$ (49,953)	$ 20,553
Weighted average common shares (basic)	236,961,158	235,941,185
Effect of dilutive securities:
Stock options, restricted stock and restricted stock units		3,258,696
Adjusted weighted average common shares and assumed exercises of stock options and vesting of stock awards (diluted)	236,961,158	239,199,881
Basic earnings per share:
Income (loss) from operations less noncontrolling interests	$ (0.21)	$ 0.09
Net income (loss) attributable to McDermott International, Inc.	$ (0.21)	$ 0.09
Diluted earnings per share:
Income (loss) from operations less noncontrolling interests	$ (0.21)	$ 0.09
Net income (loss) attributable to McDermott International, Inc	$ (0.21)	$ 0.09