Supplemental Financial Information - Effect of Changes in Other Assets and Liabilities on Cash Flows from Operating Activities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]
Net change in other assets and liabilities	$ (9,708)	$ (34,940)	$ (21,225)
Noble-UK
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]
Accounts receivable	2,057	3,974	114,456
Other current assets	3,573	(2,722)	26,155
Other assets	16,218	(10,378)	(89,021)
Accounts payable	(2,279)	14,955	(14,625)
Other current liabilities	(4,700)	(13,940)	33,906
Other liabilities	(24,577)	(26,829)	(92,096)
Net change in other assets and liabilities	(9,708)	(34,940)	(21,225)
Noble - Cayman
Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract]
Accounts receivable	2,057	3,974	114,456
Other current assets	4,046	(2,700)	23,309
Other assets	18,749	(6,424)	(91,236)
Accounts payable	(2,182)	14,795	(14,429)
Other current liabilities	(4,549)	(13,495)	35,033
Other liabilities	(24,577)	(26,829)	(87,213)
Net change in other assets and liabilities	$ (6,456)	$ (30,679)	$ (20,080)