Comprehensive Income (Other Comprehensive Income) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2010	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2010
Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ 4,472	$ (27,719)	$ (55,932)	$ (47,671)
Unrealized net gain (loss) on derivatives	(55)	883	(150)	(531)
Unrealized net gain (loss) on marketable securities	(37)		(23)
Reclassification of loss on auction rate securities				83
Reclassification of cumulative foreign currency translation adjustment due to sale of investment in subsidiaries	697		697
Deferred tax benefit (expense)	31	(309)	60	186
Comprehensive income (loss)	5,108	(27,145)	(55,348)	(47,933)
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest		139	714	139
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Global Industries, Ltd.	$ 5,108	$ (27,284)	$ (56,062)	$ (48,072)

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