CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE LOSS (Unaudited) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Statement Of Income And Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net Loss	$ (12,048)	$ (45,984)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Unrealized gain (loss) on investments	12	(24)
Foreign currency translation adjustment	(2,042)	(320)
Gain (loss) on derivatives	(16,885)	14,529
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	(18,915)	14,185
Total Comprehensive Loss	(30,963)	(31,799)
Less: Comprehensive Income Attributable to Non-controlling Interests	2,426	503
Comprehensive Loss Attributable to McDermott International, Inc.	$ (33,389)	$ (32,302)