Statement of Comprehensive Income (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2012	Mar. 31, 2011
Statement Of Income And Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 16,763	$ 16,648
Other Comprehensive Loss
Foreign currency translation adjustments	20,334	37,378
Unrealized loss on derivative instrument	(5,590)	(3,118)
Change in unrealized appreciation on marketable securities	0	0
Total other comprehensive loss	14,744	34,260
Comprehensive income (loss)	31,507	50,908
Amounts Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests:
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(5,640)	(4,213)
Foreign currency translation adjustments	(294)	(635)
Change in unrealized loss on derivative instruments	(61)	(24)
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(5,995)	(4,872)
Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to CPA 17 Global Shareholders	$ 25,512	$ 46,036