2.2.0.25truefalse04055 - Disclosure - Derivatives (Details - Income Statement)truefalseIn Thousandsfalse1falsefalseUSDtruefalse{pre_HedgingDesignationAxis} : Derivates not designated as hedges [Member] 1/1/2011 - 3/31/2011 USD ($) $FROM_Jan01_2011_TO_Mar31_2011_pre_HedgingDesignationAxis_NondesignatedMemberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000911421duration2011-01-01T00:00:002011-03-31T00:00:00falsefalseDerivates not designated as hedges [Member]pre_HedgingDesignationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_NondesignatedMemberpre_HedgingDesignationAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$2falsefalseUSDtruefalse{pre_HedgingDesignationAxis} : Derivates not designated as hedges [Member] 1/1/2010 - 3/31/2010 USD ($) $FROM_Jan01_2010_TO_Mar31_2010_pre_HedgingDesignationAxis_NondesignatedMemberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000911421duration2010-01-01T00:00:002010-03-31T00:00:00falsefalseDerivates not designated as hedges [Member]pre_HedgingDesignationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_NondesignatedMemberpre_HedgingDesignationAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$2true0us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossLineItemsus-gaaptruenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringLine items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table.falsefalseDerivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]3false0us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossRecognizedInIncomeNetus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truefalsefalse-42235000-42235falsetruefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse-23104000-23104falsetruefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe amount of net gains and losses recognized in income during the period on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as hedging instruments in fair value hedges and related hedged items designated and qualifying in fair value hedges, on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as hedging instruments in cash flow hedges, and on derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 205G Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 44C -Subparagraph b falsefalseAmount of gain(loss) on derivatives recognized in income4false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://www.partnerre.com/role/disclosurederivativesdetailsincomestatement1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3falsefalseUSDtruefalse{pre_HedgingDesignationAxis} : Derivates not designated as hedges [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis} : Interest rate derivatives [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis} : Net realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member] 1/1/2011 - 3/31/2011 USD ($) $FROM_Jan01_2011_TO_Mar31_2011_us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis_InterestRateContractMember_us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis_NetRealizedAndUnrealizedInvestmentGainsAndLossesMember_pre_HedgingDesignationAxis_NondesignatedMemberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000911421duration2011-01-01T00:00:002011-03-31T00:00:00falsefalseDerivates not designated as hedges [Member]pre_HedgingDesignationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_NondesignatedMemberpre_HedgingDesignationAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseInterest rate derivatives [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_InterestRateContractMemberus-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseNet realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldipre_NetRealizedAndUnrealizedInvestmentGainsAndLossesMemberus-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$4falsefalseUSDtruefalse{pre_HedgingDesignationAxis} : Derivates not designated as hedges [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis} : Interest rate derivatives [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis} : Net realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member] 1/1/2010 - 3/31/2010 USD ($) $FROM_Jan01_2010_TO_Mar31_2010_us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis_InterestRateContractMember_us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis_NetRealizedAndUnrealizedInvestmentGainsAndLossesMember_pre_HedgingDesignationAxis_NondesignatedMemberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000911421duration2010-01-01T00:00:002010-03-31T00:00:00falsefalseDerivates not designated as hedges [Member]pre_HedgingDesignationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_NondesignatedMemberpre_HedgingDesignationAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseInterest rate derivatives [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_InterestRateContractMemberus-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseNet realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldipre_NetRealizedAndUnrealizedInvestmentGainsAndLossesMemberus-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseInterest rate derivatives [Member] | Net realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member]5true0us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossLineItemsus-gaaptruenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringLine items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table.falsefalseDerivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]6false0us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossRecognizedInIncomeNetus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse-3848000-3848falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe amount of net gains and losses recognized in income during the period on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as hedging instruments in fair value hedges and related hedged items designated and qualifying in fair value hedges, on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as hedging instruments in cash flow hedges, and on derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 205G Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 44C -Subparagraph b falsefalseAmount of gain(loss) on derivatives recognized in income7false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://www.partnerre.com/role/disclosurederivativesdetailsincomestatement1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse5falsefalseUSDtruefalse{pre_HedgingDesignationAxis} : Derivates not designated as hedges [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis} : Foreign exchange forward contracts [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis} : Net foreign exchange gains and losses [Member] 1/1/2011 - 3/31/2011 USD ($) $FROM_Jan01_2011_TO_Mar31_2011_us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis_ForeignCurrencyGainLossMember_us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis_ForeignExchangeForwardMember_pre_HedgingDesignationAxis_NondesignatedMemberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000911421duration2011-01-01T00:00:002011-03-31T00:00:00falsefalseDerivates not designated as hedges [Member]pre_HedgingDesignationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_NondesignatedMemberpre_HedgingDesignationAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseForeign exchange forward contracts [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_ForeignExchangeForwardMemberus-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseNet foreign exchange gains and losses [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_ForeignCurrencyGainLossMemberus-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$6falsefalseUSDtruefalse{pre_HedgingDesignationAxis} : Derivates not designated as hedges [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis} : Foreign exchange forward contracts [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis} : Net foreign exchange gains and losses [Member] 1/1/2010 - 3/31/2010 USD ($) $FROM_Jan01_2010_TO_Mar31_2010_us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis_ForeignCurrencyGainLossMember_us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis_ForeignExchangeForwardMember_pre_HedgingDesignationAxis_NondesignatedMemberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000911421duration2010-01-01T00:00:002010-03-31T00:00:00falsefalseDerivates not designated as hedges [Member]pre_HedgingDesignationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_NondesignatedMemberpre_HedgingDesignationAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseForeign exchange forward contracts [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_ForeignExchangeForwardMemberus-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseNet foreign exchange gains and losses [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_ForeignCurrencyGainLossMemberus-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseForeign exchange forward contracts [Member] | Net foreign exchange gains and losses [Member]8true0us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossLineItemsus-gaaptruenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringLine items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table.falsefalseDerivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]9false0us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossRecognizedInIncomeNetus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truefalsefalse-17016000-17016falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse-4015000-4015falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe amount of net gains and losses recognized in income during the period on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as hedging instruments in fair value hedges and related hedged items designated and qualifying in fair value hedges, on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as hedging instruments in cash flow hedges, and on derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 205G Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 44C -Subparagraph b falsefalseAmount of gain(loss) on derivatives recognized in income10false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://www.partnerre.com/role/disclosurederivativesdetailsincomestatement1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse7falsefalseUSDtruefalse{pre_HedgingDesignationAxis} : Derivates not designated as hedges [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis} : Foreign currency option contracts [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis} : Net foreign exchange gains and losses [Member] 1/1/2011 - 3/31/2011 USD ($) $FROM_Jan01_2011_TO_Mar31_2011_us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis_ForeignCurrencyGainLossMember_us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis_ForeignExchangeOptionMember_pre_HedgingDesignationAxis_NondesignatedMemberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000911421duration2011-01-01T00:00:002011-03-31T00:00:00falsefalseDerivates not designated as hedges [Member]pre_HedgingDesignationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_NondesignatedMemberpre_HedgingDesignationAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseForeign currency option contracts [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_ForeignExchangeOptionMemberus-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseNet foreign exchange gains and losses [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_ForeignCurrencyGainLossMemberus-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$8falsefalseUSDtruefalse{pre_HedgingDesignationAxis} : Derivates not designated as hedges [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis} : Foreign currency option contracts [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis} : Net foreign exchange gains and losses [Member] 1/1/2010 - 3/31/2010 USD ($) $FROM_Jan01_2010_TO_Mar31_2010_us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis_ForeignCurrencyGainLossMember_us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis_ForeignExchangeOptionMember_pre_HedgingDesignationAxis_NondesignatedMemberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000911421duration2010-01-01T00:00:002010-03-31T00:00:00falsefalseDerivates not designated as hedges [Member]pre_HedgingDesignationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_NondesignatedMemberpre_HedgingDesignationAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseForeign currency option contracts [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_ForeignExchangeOptionMemberus-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseNet foreign exchange gains and losses [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_ForeignCurrencyGainLossMemberus-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseForeign currency option contracts [Member] | Net foreign exchange gains and losses [Member]11true0us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossLineItemsus-gaaptruenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringLine items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table.falsefalseDerivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]12false0us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossRecognizedInIncomeNetus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truefalsefalse-77000-77falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse22000002200falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe amount of net gains and losses recognized in income during the period on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as hedging instruments in fair value hedges and related hedged items designated and qualifying in fair value hedges, on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as hedging instruments in cash flow hedges, and on derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 205G Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 44C -Subparagraph b falsefalseAmount of gain(loss) on derivatives recognized in income13false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://www.partnerre.com/role/disclosurederivativesdetailsincomestatement1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse9falsefalseUSDtruefalse{pre_HedgingDesignationAxis} : Derivates not designated as hedges [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis} : Futures contracts [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis} : Net realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member] 1/1/2011 - 3/31/2011 USD ($) $FROM_Jan01_2011_TO_Mar31_2011_us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis_FutureMember_us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis_NetRealizedAndUnrealizedInvestmentGainsAndLossesMember_pre_HedgingDesignationAxis_NondesignatedMemberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000911421duration2011-01-01T00:00:002011-03-31T00:00:00falsefalseDerivates not designated as hedges [Member]pre_HedgingDesignationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_NondesignatedMemberpre_HedgingDesignationAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseFutures contracts [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_FutureMemberus-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseNet realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldipre_NetRealizedAndUnrealizedInvestmentGainsAndLossesMemberus-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$10falsefalseUSDtruefalse{pre_HedgingDesignationAxis} : Derivates not designated as hedges [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis} : Futures contracts [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis} : Net realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member] 1/1/2010 - 3/31/2010 USD ($) $FROM_Jan01_2010_TO_Mar31_2010_us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis_FutureMember_us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis_NetRealizedAndUnrealizedInvestmentGainsAndLossesMember_pre_HedgingDesignationAxis_NondesignatedMemberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000911421duration2010-01-01T00:00:002010-03-31T00:00:00falsefalseDerivates not designated as hedges [Member]pre_HedgingDesignationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_NondesignatedMemberpre_HedgingDesignationAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseFutures contracts [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_FutureMemberus-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseNet realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldipre_NetRealizedAndUnrealizedInvestmentGainsAndLossesMemberus-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseFutures contracts [Member] | Net realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member]14true0us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossLineItemsus-gaaptruenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringLine items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table.falsefalseDerivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]15false0us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossRecognizedInIncomeNetus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truefalsefalse-20283000-20283falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse-20945000-20945falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe amount of net gains and losses recognized in income during the period on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as hedging instruments in fair value hedges and related hedged items designated and qualifying in fair value hedges, on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as hedging instruments in cash flow hedges, and on derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 205G Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 44C -Subparagraph b falsefalseAmount of gain(loss) on derivatives recognized in income16false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://www.partnerre.com/role/disclosurederivativesdetailsincomestatement1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse11falsefalseUSDtruefalse{pre_HedgingDesignationAxis} : Derivates not designated as hedges [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis} : Credit default swaps (protection purchased) [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis} : Net realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member] 1/1/2011 - 3/31/2011 USD ($) $FROM_Jan01_2011_TO_Mar31_2011_us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis_CreditDefaultSwapMember_us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis_NetRealizedAndUnrealizedInvestmentGainsAndLossesMember_pre_HedgingDesignationAxis_NondesignatedMemberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000911421duration2011-01-01T00:00:002011-03-31T00:00:00falsefalseDerivates not designated as hedges [Member]pre_HedgingDesignationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_NondesignatedMemberpre_HedgingDesignationAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseCredit default swaps (protection purchased) [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_CreditDefaultSwapMemberus-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseNet realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldipre_NetRealizedAndUnrealizedInvestmentGainsAndLossesMemberus-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$12falsefalseUSDtruefalse{pre_HedgingDesignationAxis} : Derivates not designated as hedges [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis} : Credit default swaps (protection purchased) [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis} : Net realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member] 1/1/2010 - 3/31/2010 USD ($) $FROM_Jan01_2010_TO_Mar31_2010_us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis_CreditDefaultSwapMember_us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis_NetRealizedAndUnrealizedInvestmentGainsAndLossesMember_pre_HedgingDesignationAxis_NondesignatedMemberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000911421duration2010-01-01T00:00:002010-03-31T00:00:00falsefalseDerivates not designated as hedges [Member]pre_HedgingDesignationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_NondesignatedMemberpre_HedgingDesignationAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseCredit default swaps (protection purchased) [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_CreditDefaultSwapMemberus-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseNet realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldipre_NetRealizedAndUnrealizedInvestmentGainsAndLossesMemberus-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseCredit default swaps (protection purchased) [Member] | Net realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member]17true0us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossLineItemsus-gaaptruenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringLine items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table.falsefalseDerivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]18false0us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossRecognizedInIncomeNetus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truefalsefalse-244000-244falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse-652000-652falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe amount of net gains and losses recognized in income during the period on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as hedging instruments in fair value hedges and related hedged items designated and qualifying in fair value hedges, on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as hedging instruments in cash flow hedges, and on derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 205G Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 44C -Subparagraph b falsefalseAmount of gain(loss) on derivatives recognized in income19false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://www.partnerre.com/role/disclosurederivativesdetailsincomestatement1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse13falsefalseUSDtruefalse{pre_HedgingDesignationAxis} : Derivates not designated as hedges [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis} : Credit default swaps (assumed risks) [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis} : Net realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member] 1/1/2011 - 3/31/2011 USD ($) $FROM_Jan01_2011_TO_Mar31_2011_us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis_CreditDefaultSwapsAssumedRisksMember_us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis_NetRealizedAndUnrealizedInvestmentGainsAndLossesMember_pre_HedgingDesignationAxis_NondesignatedMemberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000911421duration2011-01-01T00:00:002011-03-31T00:00:00falsefalseDerivates not designated as hedges [Member]pre_HedgingDesignationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_NondesignatedMemberpre_HedgingDesignationAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseCredit default swaps (assumed risks) [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldipre_CreditDefaultSwapsAssumedRisksMemberus-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseNet realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldipre_NetRealizedAndUnrealizedInvestmentGainsAndLossesMemberus-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$14falsefalseUSDtruefalse{pre_HedgingDesignationAxis} : Derivates not designated as hedges [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis} : Credit default swaps (assumed risks) [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis} : Net realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member] 1/1/2010 - 3/31/2010 USD ($) $FROM_Jan01_2010_TO_Mar31_2010_us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis_CreditDefaultSwapsAssumedRisksMember_us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis_NetRealizedAndUnrealizedInvestmentGainsAndLossesMember_pre_HedgingDesignationAxis_NondesignatedMemberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000911421duration2010-01-01T00:00:002010-03-31T00:00:00falsefalseDerivates not designated as hedges [Member]pre_HedgingDesignationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_NondesignatedMemberpre_HedgingDesignationAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseCredit default swaps (assumed risks) [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldipre_CreditDefaultSwapsAssumedRisksMemberus-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseNet realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldipre_NetRealizedAndUnrealizedInvestmentGainsAndLossesMemberus-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseCredit default swaps (assumed risks) [Member] | Net realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member]20true0us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossLineItemsus-gaaptruenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringLine items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table.falsefalseDerivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]21false0us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossRecognizedInIncomeNetus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truefalsefalse836000836falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse2100021falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe amount of net gains and losses recognized in income during the period on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as hedging instruments in fair value hedges and related hedged items designated and qualifying in fair value hedges, on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as hedging instruments in cash flow hedges, and on derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 205G Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 44C -Subparagraph b falsefalseAmount of gain(loss) on derivatives recognized in income22false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://www.partnerre.com/role/disclosurederivativesdetailsincomestatement1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse15falsefalseUSDtruefalse{pre_HedgingDesignationAxis} : Derivates not designated as hedges [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis} : Insurance-linked securities [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis} : Net realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member] 1/1/2011 - 3/31/2011 USD ($) $FROM_Jan01_2011_TO_Mar31_2011_us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis_InsuranceLinkedSecuritiesMember_us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis_NetRealizedAndUnrealizedInvestmentGainsAndLossesMember_pre_HedgingDesignationAxis_NondesignatedMemberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000911421duration2011-01-01T00:00:002011-03-31T00:00:00falsefalseDerivates not designated as hedges [Member]pre_HedgingDesignationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_NondesignatedMemberpre_HedgingDesignationAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseInsurance-linked securities [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldipre_InsuranceLinkedSecuritiesMemberus-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseNet realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldipre_NetRealizedAndUnrealizedInvestmentGainsAndLossesMemberus-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$16falsefalseUSDtruefalse{pre_HedgingDesignationAxis} : Derivates not designated as hedges [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis} : Insurance-linked securities [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis} : Net realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member] 1/1/2010 - 3/31/2010 USD ($) $FROM_Jan01_2010_TO_Mar31_2010_us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis_InsuranceLinkedSecuritiesMember_us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis_NetRealizedAndUnrealizedInvestmentGainsAndLossesMember_pre_HedgingDesignationAxis_NondesignatedMemberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000911421duration2010-01-01T00:00:002010-03-31T00:00:00falsefalseDerivates not designated as hedges [Member]pre_HedgingDesignationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_NondesignatedMemberpre_HedgingDesignationAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseInsurance-linked securities [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldipre_InsuranceLinkedSecuritiesMemberus-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseNet realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldipre_NetRealizedAndUnrealizedInvestmentGainsAndLossesMemberus-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseInsurance-linked securities [Member] | Net realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member]23true0us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossLineItemsus-gaaptruenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringLine items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table.falsefalseDerivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]24false0us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossRecognizedInIncomeNetus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truefalsefalse-7073000-7073falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse11380001138falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe amount of net gains and losses recognized in income during the period on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as hedging instruments in fair value hedges and related hedged items designated and qualifying in fair value hedges, on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as hedging instruments in cash flow hedges, and on derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 205G Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 44C -Subparagraph b falsefalseAmount of gain(loss) on derivatives recognized in income25false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://www.partnerre.com/role/disclosurederivativesdetailsincomestatement1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse17falsefalseUSDtruefalse{pre_HedgingDesignationAxis} : Derivates not designated as hedges [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis} : Total return swaps [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis} : Net realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member] 1/1/2011 - 3/31/2011 USD ($) $FROM_Jan01_2011_TO_Mar31_2011_us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis_NetRealizedAndUnrealizedInvestmentGainsAndLossesMember_pre_HedgingDesignationAxis_NondesignatedMember_us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis_TotalReturnSwapMemberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000911421duration2011-01-01T00:00:002011-03-31T00:00:00falsefalseDerivates not designated as hedges [Member]pre_HedgingDesignationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_NondesignatedMemberpre_HedgingDesignationAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseTotal return swaps [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_TotalReturnSwapMemberus-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseNet realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldipre_NetRealizedAndUnrealizedInvestmentGainsAndLossesMemberus-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$18falsefalseUSDtruefalse{pre_HedgingDesignationAxis} : Derivates not designated as hedges [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis} : Total return swaps [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis} : Net realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member] 1/1/2010 - 3/31/2010 USD ($) $FROM_Jan01_2010_TO_Mar31_2010_us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis_NetRealizedAndUnrealizedInvestmentGainsAndLossesMember_pre_HedgingDesignationAxis_NondesignatedMember_us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis_TotalReturnSwapMemberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000911421duration2010-01-01T00:00:002010-03-31T00:00:00falsefalseDerivates not designated as hedges [Member]pre_HedgingDesignationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_NondesignatedMemberpre_HedgingDesignationAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseTotal return swaps [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_TotalReturnSwapMemberus-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseNet realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldipre_NetRealizedAndUnrealizedInvestmentGainsAndLossesMemberus-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseTotal return swaps [Member] | Net realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member]26true0us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossLineItemsus-gaaptruenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringLine items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table.falsefalseDerivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]27false0us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossRecognizedInIncomeNetus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truefalsefalse799000799falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse26210002621falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe amount of net gains and losses recognized in income during the period on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as hedging instruments in fair value hedges and related hedged items designated and qualifying in fair value hedges, on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as hedging instruments in cash flow hedges, and on derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 205G Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 44C -Subparagraph b falsefalseAmount of gain(loss) on derivatives recognized in income28false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://www.partnerre.com/role/disclosurederivativesdetailsincomestatement1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse19falsefalseUSDtruefalse{pre_HedgingDesignationAxis} : Derivates not designated as hedges [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis} : Interest rate swaps [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis} : Net realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member] 1/1/2011 - 3/31/2011 USD ($) $FROM_Jan01_2011_TO_Mar31_2011_us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis_InterestRateSwapMember_us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis_NetRealizedAndUnrealizedInvestmentGainsAndLossesMember_pre_HedgingDesignationAxis_NondesignatedMemberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000911421duration2011-01-01T00:00:002011-03-31T00:00:00falsefalseDerivates not designated as hedges [Member]pre_HedgingDesignationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_NondesignatedMemberpre_HedgingDesignationAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseInterest rate swaps [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_InterestRateSwapMemberus-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseNet realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldipre_NetRealizedAndUnrealizedInvestmentGainsAndLossesMemberus-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$20falsefalseUSDtruefalse{pre_HedgingDesignationAxis} : Derivates not designated as hedges [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis} : Interest rate swaps [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis} : Net realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member] 1/1/2010 - 3/31/2010 USD ($) $FROM_Jan01_2010_TO_Mar31_2010_us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis_InterestRateSwapMember_us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis_NetRealizedAndUnrealizedInvestmentGainsAndLossesMember_pre_HedgingDesignationAxis_NondesignatedMemberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000911421duration2010-01-01T00:00:002010-03-31T00:00:00falsefalseDerivates not designated as hedges [Member]pre_HedgingDesignationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_NondesignatedMemberpre_HedgingDesignationAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseInterest rate swaps [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_InterestRateSwapMemberus-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseNet realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldipre_NetRealizedAndUnrealizedInvestmentGainsAndLossesMemberus-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseInterest rate swaps [Member] | Net realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member]29true0us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossLineItemsus-gaaptruenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringLine items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table.falsefalseDerivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]30false0us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossRecognizedInIncomeNetus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truefalsefalse823000823falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse497000497falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe amount of net gains and losses recognized in income during the period on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as hedging instruments in fair value hedges and related hedged items designated and qualifying in fair value hedges, on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as hedging instruments in cash flow hedges, and on derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 205G Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 44C -Subparagraph b falsefalseAmount of gain(loss) on derivatives recognized in income31false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://www.partnerre.com/role/disclosurederivativesdetailsincomestatement1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse21falsefalseUSDtruefalse{pre_HedgingDesignationAxis} : Derivates not designated as hedges [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis} : Other [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis} : Net realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member] 1/1/2011 - 3/31/2011 USD ($) $FROM_Jan01_2011_TO_Mar31_2011_us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis_NetRealizedAndUnrealizedInvestmentGainsAndLossesMember_pre_HedgingDesignationAxis_NondesignatedMember_us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis_OtherContractMemberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000911421duration2011-01-01T00:00:002011-03-31T00:00:00falsefalseDerivates not designated as hedges [Member]pre_HedgingDesignationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_NondesignatedMemberpre_HedgingDesignationAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseOther [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_OtherContractMemberus-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseNet realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldipre_NetRealizedAndUnrealizedInvestmentGainsAndLossesMemberus-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$22falsefalseUSDtruefalse{pre_HedgingDesignationAxis} : Derivates not designated as hedges [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis} : Other [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis} : Net realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member] 1/1/2010 - 3/31/2010 USD ($) $FROM_Jan01_2010_TO_Mar31_2010_us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis_NetRealizedAndUnrealizedInvestmentGainsAndLossesMember_pre_HedgingDesignationAxis_NondesignatedMember_us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxis_OtherContractMemberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000911421duration2010-01-01T00:00:002010-03-31T00:00:00falsefalseDerivates not designated as hedges [Member]pre_HedgingDesignationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_NondesignatedMemberpre_HedgingDesignationAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseOther [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_OtherContractMemberus-gaap_DerivativeByNatureAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseNet realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldipre_NetRealizedAndUnrealizedInvestmentGainsAndLossesMemberus-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseOther [Member] | Net realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member]32true0us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossLineItemsus-gaaptruenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringLine items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table.falsefalseDerivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]33false0us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossRecognizedInIncomeNetus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse-121000-121falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe amount of net gains and losses recognized in income during the period on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as hedging instruments in fair value hedges and related hedged items designated and qualifying in fair value hedges, on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as hedging instruments in cash flow hedges, and on derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 205G Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 44C -Subparagraph b falsefalseAmount of gain(loss) on derivatives recognized in income34false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://www.partnerre.com/role/disclosurederivativesdetailsincomestatement1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse23falsefalseUSDtruefalse{pre_HedgingDesignationAxis} : Derivates not designated as hedges [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis} : Net foreign exchange gains and losses [Member] 1/1/2011 - 3/31/2011 USD ($) $FROM_Jan01_2011_TO_Mar31_2011_us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis_ForeignCurrencyGainLossMember_pre_HedgingDesignationAxis_NondesignatedMemberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000911421duration2011-01-01T00:00:002011-03-31T00:00:00falsefalseDerivates not designated as hedges [Member]pre_HedgingDesignationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_NondesignatedMemberpre_HedgingDesignationAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseNet foreign exchange gains and losses [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_ForeignCurrencyGainLossMemberus-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$24falsefalseUSDtruefalse{pre_HedgingDesignationAxis} : Derivates not designated as hedges [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis} : Net foreign exchange gains and losses [Member] 1/1/2010 - 3/31/2010 USD ($) $FROM_Jan01_2010_TO_Mar31_2010_us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis_ForeignCurrencyGainLossMember_pre_HedgingDesignationAxis_NondesignatedMemberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000911421duration2010-01-01T00:00:002010-03-31T00:00:00falsefalseDerivates not designated as hedges [Member]pre_HedgingDesignationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_NondesignatedMemberpre_HedgingDesignationAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseNet foreign exchange gains and losses [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_ForeignCurrencyGainLossMemberus-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseNet foreign exchange gains and losses [Member]35true0us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossLineItemsus-gaaptruenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringLine items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table.falsefalseDerivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]36false0us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossRecognizedInIncomeNetus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truefalsefalse-17093000-17093falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse-1815000-1815falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe amount of net gains and losses recognized in income during the period on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as hedging instruments in fair value hedges and related hedged items designated and qualifying in fair value hedges, on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as hedging instruments in cash flow hedges, and on derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 205G Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 44C -Subparagraph b falsefalseAmount of gain(loss) on derivatives recognized in income37false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://www.partnerre.com/role/disclosurederivativesdetailsincomestatement1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse25falsefalseUSDtruefalse{pre_HedgingDesignationAxis} : Derivates not designated as hedges [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis} : Net realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member] 1/1/2011 - 3/31/2011 USD ($) $FROM_Jan01_2011_TO_Mar31_2011_us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis_NetRealizedAndUnrealizedInvestmentGainsAndLossesMember_pre_HedgingDesignationAxis_NondesignatedMemberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000911421duration2011-01-01T00:00:002011-03-31T00:00:00falsefalseDerivates not designated as hedges [Member]pre_HedgingDesignationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_NondesignatedMemberpre_HedgingDesignationAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseNet realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldipre_NetRealizedAndUnrealizedInvestmentGainsAndLossesMemberus-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$26falsefalseUSDtruefalse{pre_HedgingDesignationAxis} : Derivates not designated as hedges [Member] {us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis} : Net realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member] 1/1/2010 - 3/31/2010 USD ($) $FROM_Jan01_2010_TO_Mar31_2010_us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxis_NetRealizedAndUnrealizedInvestmentGainsAndLossesMember_pre_HedgingDesignationAxis_NondesignatedMemberhttp://www.sec.gov/CIK0000911421duration2010-01-01T00:00:002010-03-31T00:00:00falsefalseDerivates not designated as hedges [Member]pre_HedgingDesignationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldius-gaap_NondesignatedMemberpre_HedgingDesignationAxisexplicitMemberfalsefalseNet realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member]us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldipre_NetRealizedAndUnrealizedInvestmentGainsAndLossesMemberus-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByIncomeStatementLocationAxisexplicitMemberUSDStandardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseNet realized and unrealized investment gains and losses [Member]38true0us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossLineItemsus-gaaptruenadurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseOtherxbrli:stringItemTypestringLine items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table.falsefalseDerivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]39false0us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossRecognizedInIncomeNetus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truefalsefalse-25142000-25142falsetruefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse-21289000-21289falsetruefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe amount of net gains and losses recognized in income during the period on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as hedging instruments in fair value hedges and related hedged items designated and qualifying in fair value hedges, on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as hedging instruments in cash flow hedges, and on derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 205G Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 133 -Paragraph 44C -Subparagraph b falsefalseAmount of gain(loss) on derivatives recognized in income238Derivatives (Details - Income Statement) (Derivates not designated as hedges [Member], USD $)ThousandsUnKnownUnKnownUnKnownfalsetrue