Consolidated Statements Of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Consolidated Statements Of Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract]
Net income (loss), including noncontrolling interests	$ 195,550	$ 113,049	$ (43,156)
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax:
Unrealized loss on hedges arising during the period	(37,364)	(16,847)	(22,773)
Reclassification adjustments for loss included in net income	3,365	1,476	(2,661)
Reclassification adjustments for loss from derivatives de-designated as cash flow hedges included in net income			5,524
Income taxes on unrealized loss on hedges	11,899	5,380	6,969
Unrealized loss on hedges, net of tax	(22,100)	(9,991)	(12,941)
Foreign currency translation gain (loss)	(19,464)	4,970	7,291
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax	(41,564)	(5,021)	(5,650)
Comprehensive income (loss)	153,986	108,028	(48,806)
Less comprehensive income applicable to noncontrolling interests	(503)	(3,127)	(3,178)
Comprehensive income (loss) applicable to Helix	$ 153,483	$ 104,901	$ (51,984)