Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Components Of Total Comprehensive Income (Loss)) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011
Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract]
Net income, including noncontrolling interests	$ 15,675	$ 46,826	$ 127,641	$ 115,570
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Foreign currency translation gain	3,905	1,588	5,219	2,287
Unrealized gain (loss) on hedges, net	(20,036)	33,888	(21,158)	44,291
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	(16,131)	35,476	(15,939)	46,578
Total comprehensive income (loss)	(456)	82,302	111,702	162,148
Less comprehensive income applicable to noncontrolling interests	(800)	(800)	(2,378)	(2,354)
Total comprehensive income (loss) applicable to Helix	(1,256)	81,502	109,324	159,794
Preferred stock dividends	(10)	(10)	(30)	(30)
Total comprehensive income (loss) applicable to Helix common shareholders	$ (1,266)	$ 81,492	$ 109,294	$ 159,764