Long-Term Debt (Schedule of Deferred Financing Costs) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Helix Term Loan [Member]
Gross Carrying Amount	$ 15,325	$ 15,318
Accumulated Amortization	(14,669)	(11,595)
Net	656	3,723
2025 Notes [Member]
Gross Carrying Amount		8,189
Accumulated Amortization		(8,189)
2032 Notes [Member]
Gross Carrying Amount	3,759	4,251
Accumulated Amortization	(687)	(534)
Net	3,072	3,717
Helix Revolving Loans [Member]
Gross Carrying Amount	20,046	20,021
Accumulated Amortization	(13,225)	(12,466)
Net	6,821	7,555
Senior Unsecured Notes [Member]
Gross Carrying Amount	10,643	10,643
Accumulated Amortization	(8,402)	(8,252)
Net	2,241	2,391
MARAD Debt [Member]
Gross Carrying Amount	12,200	12,200
Accumulated Amortization	(5,370)	(5,248)
Net	6,830	6,952
Debt [Member]
Gross Carrying Amount	61,973	70,622
Accumulated Amortization	(42,353)	(46,284)
Net	$ 19,620	$ 24,338