Accounting Policies [Abstract] Accounting Policies [Abstract] Accounts Payable Current Accounts payable Accounts Receivable Net Current Accounts receivable Accrued Liabilities Current Accrued expenses Accumulated Capitalized Interest Costs Interest capitalized Accumulated Vessel Depreciation Accumulated Vessel Depreciation Accumulated Depreciation Additional Deferred Financing Costs Additional Deferred Financing Costs Expenditure in the period Fees and related cost paid Additional Paid In Capital Common Stock Additional paid in capital Additional Paid In Capital [Member] Additional Paid in Capital [Member] Adjustments To Additional Paid In Capital Share Based Compensation Restricted Stock Units Requisite Service Period Recognition Restricted Stock Units (note 16) Adjustments To Reconcile Net Income Loss To Cash Provided By Used In Operating Activities [Abstract] Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income to Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities After [Member] After [Member] After Merger [Member] Allocated Share Based Compensation Expense Recognized share based compensation expenses Allowance For Doubtful Accounts Receivable Current Allowances for doubtful accounts Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Amortization [Member] Amortization [Member] Amortization [Member] Amortization Of Financing Costs Amortization of deferred financing costs (note 8) Amortization included within interest expense Amortization of Intangible Assets Charter Agreements Amortization Of Intangible Assets Charter Agreements Amortization in period The amount of intangible lease liability amortized as an increase in time charter revenue during the reporting period. Amortization Of Intangible Liabilities Amortization of intangible liability Annual Ship Management Fees Annual Ship Management Fees Annual ship management fees Annual Ship Management Fees Per Vessel Annual Ship Management Fees Per Vessel Annual ship management fee per vessel Approximate Remaining Charter Term Approximate Remaining Charter Term Remaining Charter Duration (years) Remaining terms Asset Impairment Charges Impairment charge (note 5) Impairment charges Assets Total Assets Assets [Abstract] Assets Assets Current Total current assets Assets Noncurrent Total non-current assets At Merger [Member] At Merger [Member] At Merger [Member] Available To Allocate Prorata Between Classa And Classb Basic Available To Allocate Prorata Between Classa And Classb Basic Available to- allocate pro-rata between Class A and B Available To Allocate Prorata Between Classa And Classb Diluted Available To Allocate Prorata Between Classa And Classb Diluted Available to - allocate pro rata between Class A and B Bonds Redeemable For Shares Bonds Redeemable For Shares Bonds redeemable for shares Business Acquisition Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Capacity Of Vessels In Twenty Foot Equivalent Units Capacity Of Vessels In Twenty Foot Equivalent Units Capacity in TEUs The cash outflow for capitalized costs relating to drydocking. Capitalized Costs Relating To Dry Docking Cash paid for drydockings Cash And Cash Equivalents At Carrying Value Cash and Cash Equivalents at end of Year Cash and Cash Equivalents at start of Year Cash and cash equivalents Cash And Cash Equivalents Period Increase Decrease Net (Decrease) Increase in Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash And Cash Equivalents Policy [Text Block] Cash and cash equivalents Cash And Cash Equivalents Restricted Cash And Cash Equivalents Policy Restricted cash Charter Agreement Period Extended Charter Agreement Period Extended Charters period extended Charter Expiring Period Charter Expiring Period New expiring period New expiry dates Charterhire Amount Outstanding Charterhire Amount Outstanding Charter hire outstanding Charterhire, outstanding amount Charterhire Due Date Charterhire Due Date Charter hire due date Charter Hire Future Maximum Contracted Receivable Current Charter Hire Future Maximum Contracted Receivable Current 2014 Charter Hire Future Maximum Contracted Receivable In Five Years Charter Hire Future Maximum Contracted Receivable In Five Years 2018 Charter Hire Future Maximum Contracted Receivable In Four Years Charter Hire Future Maximum Contracted Receivable In Four Years 2017 Charter Hire Future Maximum Contracted Receivable In Three Years Charter Hire Future Maximum Contracted Receivable In Three Years 2016 Charter Hire Future Maximum Contracted Receivable In Two Years Charter Hire Future Maximum Contracted Receivable In Two Years 2015 Charter Hire Future Maximum Contracted Receivable Thereafter Charter Hire Future Maximum Contracted Receivable Thereafter Thereafter Charterhire Payments Description Charterhire Payments Description Charter hire payments term Class A Warrants [Member] Class A Warrants [Member] Class A Warrants [Member] Class Of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Class Of Stock [Line Items] Class of Stock [Line Items] Cma Cgm Alcazar [Member] Cma Cgm Alcazar [Member] CMA CGM Alcazar [Member] Cma Cgm America [Member] Cma Cgm America [Member] CMA CGM America [Member] Cma Cgm Berlioz [Member] Cma Cgm Berlioz [Member] CMA CGM Berlioz [Member] Cma Cgm Chateau Dlf [Member] Cma Cgm Chateau Dlf [Member] CMA CGM Chateau d'lf [Member] Cma Cgm Jamaica [Member] Cma Cgm Jamaica [Member] CMA CGM Jamaica [Member] Cma Cgm La Tour [Member] Cma Cgm La Tour [Member] CMA CGM La Tour [Member] Cma Cgm Manet [Member] Cma Cgm Manet [Member] CMA CGM Manet [Member] Cma Cgm Matisse [Member] Cma Cgm Matisse [Member] CMA CGM Matisse [Member] Cma Cgm [Member] Cma Cgm [Member] CMA CGM [Member] Cma Cgm Sambhar [Member] Cma Cgm Sambhar [Member] CMA CGM Sambhar [Member] Cma Cgm Thalassa [Member] Cma Cgm Thalassa [Member] CMA CGM Thalassa [Member] Cma Cgm Utrillo [Member] Cma Cgm Utrillo [Member] CMA CGM Utrillo [Member] Collaboration Arrangement Disclosure [Abstract] Collaboration Arrangement Disclosure [Abstract] Collaboration Arrangement Disclosure [Abstract] Commitments And Contingencies Commitments and contingencies (note 13) Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Common Class A [Member] Class A Common Stock [Member] Common Class B [Member] Class B Common Stock [Member] Common Stock Conversion Features Possible future conversion basis for Class B common shares to Class A common shares Common Stock Dividends Per Share Cash Paid Common stock dividends paid Common Stock Dividends Per Share Declared Dividends declared Common Stock [Member] Common Stock [Member] Common Stock Par Or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, par value Common Stock Shares Authorized Common stock, shares authorized Common Stock Shares Issued Common stock, shares issued Common Stock Shares Outstanding Balance, shares Balance, shares Common stock, shares outstanding Common Stock Value Common stock Component Of Other Operating Income [Line Items] Component Of Other Operating Income [Line Items] Component Of Other Operating Income [Line Items] Component Of Other Operating Income [Table] Component Of Other Operating Income [Table] Component Of Other Operating Income [Table] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Concentration Risk By Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Disclosure [Text Block] Risks Associated with Concentration Concentration Risk [Line Items] Concentration Risk [Line Items] Concentration Risk Percentage 1 Percentage of revenue Concentration Risk [Table] Concentration Risk [Table] Consolidation Policy [Text Block] Basis of consolidation Corporate Income Tax Rate Corporate Income Tax Rate Principal rate of corporate income tax Costs And Expenses Total operating expenses Costs And Expenses [Abstract] Operating Expenses Costs Reimbursed Per Day Costs Reimbursed Per Day Cost reimbursement per vessel per day Creation Date [Axis] Report Date [Axis] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Member] Credit Facility [Member] Credit Facility [Member] Current Assets [Member] Current Assets [Member] Current Assets [Member] Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Liabilities [Member] Current Liabilities [Member] Current Liabilities [Member] Daily Charter Rate Daily Charter Rate Daily Charter Rate Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Debt Instrument Basis Spread On Variable Rate 1 Credit Facility Margin Debt Instrument Covenant Description Financial covenants of credit facility Debt instrument covenant EBITDA to debt service ratio Debt Instrument Covenant E B I T D A To Debt Service Ratio EBITDA to debt service ratio Debt Instrument Interest Rate Stated Percentage Interest rate Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument Maturity Date Maturity date of credit facility Debt Instrument Minimum Cash Balance Debt Instrument Minimum Cash Balance Minimum cash balance Debt instrument minimum net worth covenant amount Debt Instrument Minimum Net Worth Covenant Amount Net worth Debt Instrument Net Debt To Capitalization Ratio Debt Instrument Net Debt To Capitalization Ratio Net debt to total capitalization ratio Debt Instrument [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Default Financial Statements Date [Member] Financial Statement Filing Date [Domain] Deferred Charges Policy [Text Block] Deferred financing costs Deferred Costs Capitalized Prepaid And Other Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Deferred Costs, Capitalized, Prepaid, and Other Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Deferred Finance Costs [Abstract] Deferred Finance Costs [Abstract] Deferred Finance Costs Current Net Deferred financing costs (note 8) Deferred Finance Costs Net Closing balance Opening balance Deferred Finance Costs Noncurrent Net Deferred financing costs (note 8) Deferred Financing Costs [Text Block]. Deferred Financing Costs [Text Block] Deferred Financing Costs Deferred Tax Liabilities Noncurrent Deferred tax liability Deferred tax liability recognized Delmas Keta [Member] Delmas Keta [Member] Delmas Keta [Member] Depreciation And Amortization Of Capitalized Software Depreciation And Amortization Of Capitalized Software Depreciation Depreciation Depletion And Amortization Depreciation Derivative By Nature [Axis] Derivative, by Nature [Axis] Derivative Fixed Interest Rate Fixed Rate % Derivative Inception Dates Start Date Derivative Instrument Four [Member] Derivative Instrument Four [Member] October 29, 2010 [Member] Derivative Instrument One [Member] Derivative Instrument One [Member] December 17, 2008, Two [Member] Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative Instruments [Member] Derivative Instruments [Member] December 17, 2008, One [Member] Derivative Instrument Three [Member] Derivative Instrument Three [Member] July 15, 2009 [Member] Derivative Instrument Two [Member] Derivative Instrument Two [Member] December 17, 2008, Three [Member] Derivative Liabilities Derivative instruments qualified for hedging Derivative Liabilities Current Derivative instruments (note 7) Derivative Liabilities Noncurrent Derivative instruments (note 7) Derivative [Line Items] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative Maturity Dates Maturity Date Derivative Name [Domain] Derivative, Name [Domain] Derivative Notional Amount Nominal Value of Interest Rate Swap Agreements Notional Amount Disclosure on measurement of fair value of derivatives. Derivatives Fair Value [Text Block] Interest Rate Derivatives and Fair Value Measurements Derivatives Policy [Text Block] Derivative instruments Derivative [Table] Derivative [Table] Derivative termination date. Derivative Termination Dates Interest rate derivatives terminated date Maturity Date Director [Member] Director [Member] Disclosure Of Compensation Related Costs Sharebased Payments [Abstract] Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract] Disclosure Of Compensation Related Costs Share Based Payments [Text Block] Share-Based Compensation Dividends Policy [Text Block] Dividends Policy [Text Block] Dividends Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Document And Entity Information [Abstract] Document And Entity Information [Abstract] Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Information [Line Items] Document Information [Line Items] Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Type Document Type Drydock Expenditure in Progress Drydock Expenditure In Progress Drydock expenditure - in progress Drydocking Cost [Policy Text Block] Drydocking Cost Policy [Text Block] Drydocking costs Due From Related Parties Current Amounts due from CMA CGM companies presented within current assets Due To Related Parties Current Amounts due to CMA CGM companies presented within current liabilities Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Net Income per share Earnings Per Share Basic Basic (note 18) Earnings per share Earnings Per Share Basic [Abstract] Basic Earnings per Share Earnings Per Share Diluted Diluted (note 18) Earnings per share Earnings Per Share Diluted [Abstract] Diluted Earnings per Share Earnings Per Share Policy [Text Block] Earnings per share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Earnings per Share Period remaining over which the unrecognized costs will be recognized for equity-based compensation plans. Employee Service Share Based Compensation Nonvested Awards Compensation Cost Not Yet Recognized Expected Period For Recognition Remaining expected recognized cost period Employee Service Share Based Compensation Nonvested Awards Total Compensation Cost Not Yet Recognized Unrecognized compensation cost Entities [Table] Entities [Table] Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Entity Common Stock Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Well Known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Equity [Abstract] Equity [Abstract] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Method Investments And Cost Method Investments [Abstract] Equity Method Investments And Cost Method Investments [Abstract] Equity Method Investments And Cost Method Investments [Abstract] Estimated Repayments of Long-term Debt Estimated Repayments Of Longterm Debt Estimated repayments of long term debt Fair Value Assets Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation By Asset Class [Domain] Asset Class [Domain] Fair Value By Asset Class [Axis] Asset Class [Axis] Fair Value By Liability Class [Axis] Liability Class [Axis] Fair Value Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation By Liability Class [Domain] Fair Value by Liability Class [Domain] February Seven Two Thousand Fourteen [Member] February Seven Two Thousand Fourteen [Member] February 7, 2014 [Member] Financial Instruments Disclosure [Text Block] Derivative Instruments Finite Lived Intangible Assets Net [Abstract] Software development Finite Lived Intangible Liabilities [Line Items] Finite Lived Intangible Liabilities [Line Items] Finite Lived Intangible Liabilities [Line Items] Foreign Currency Transaction Gain Loss Unrealized Unrealized foreign exchange loss (gain) Foreign Currency Transactions And Translations Policy [Text Block] Foreign currency transactions French Fonds Strategique Investissement [Member] French Fonds Strategique Investissement [Member] French Fonds Strategique d'Investissement [Member] G B United Kingdom [Member] General And Administrative Expense General and administrative General [Text Block]. General [Text Block] General Goodwill And Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Goodwill And Intangible Assets Policy [Text Block] Intangible assets Granted In March [Member] Granted In March [Member] Granted in March [Member] Granted In September [Member] Granted In September [Member] Granted In September [Member] Income Loss From Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes Minority Interest And Income Loss From Equity Method Investments Income before Income Taxes Income Statement [Abstract] Income Statement [Abstract] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Taxes Paid Total income tax paid Income Tax Expense Benefit Income taxes Income Tax Policy [Text Block] Income taxes Increase Decrease In Accounts Payable And Other Operating Liabilities (Decrease) increase in accounts payable and other liabilities The (increase) decrease during the reporting period in the total amount of receivables from all parties and other assets not separately disclosed in the statement of cash flows. Increase Decrease In Receivables And Other Assets Decrease (increase) in receivables and other assets Increase Decrease In Restricted Cash Variation in restricted cash (note 14) Incremental Common Shares Attributable To Share Based Payment Arrangements Dilutive effect of share-based awards Insurance Policy [Text Block] Insurance Policy [Text Block] Insurance Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Intangible Assets Intangible Assets Net Excluding Goodwill Closing balance Opening balance Intangible assets (note 5) Intangible Liabilities Charter Agreements [Policy Text Block] Intangible Liabilities Charter Agreements Policy [Text Block] Intangible liabilities - charter agreements Intangible Liability Charter Agreements, Net Of Accumulated Amortization Intangible Liability Charter Agreements Closing balance Opening balance Intangible Liability Charter Agreements [Abstract] Intangible Liability Charter Agreements [Abstract] Intangible Liability Charter Agreements [Abstract] Current portion of the excess of the market value of vessel charters over contracted value of the charters at the date of merger. The intangible lease liability is amortized as an increase in time charter revenue over the remaining term of the relevant charter. Intangible Liability Charter Agreements Current Intangible liability - charter agreements (note 9) Non current portion of the excess of the market value of vessel charters over contracted value of the charters at the date of merger. The intangible lease liability is amortized as an increase in time charter revenue over the remaining term of the relevant charter. Intangible Liability Charter Agreements Noncurrent Intangible liability - charter agreements (note 9) Disclosure on Intangible Liabilities relating to Charter Agreements. Intangible Liability Charter Agreements [Text Block] Intangible Liability - Charter Agreements Intangible Liability Disclosure [Abstract] Intangible Liability Disclosure [Abstract] Intangible Liability Disclosure [Abstract] Interest Expense Interest expense Interest Income Other Interest income The amount of cash paid for interest on debt and for dividends of preferred shares during the period. Interest Paid In Period Total interest paid Interest Rate Derivatives At Fair Value Net Fair value of interest rate swap hedging instruments - current and non current portions Interest rate swap agreements, liability Interim Period Costs Not Allocable [Domain] Interim Period, Costs Not Allocable [Domain] Investments All Other Investments [Abstract] Investments, All Other Investments [Abstract] Julie Delmas [Member] Julie Delmas [Member] Julie Delmas [Member] Kumasi [Member] Kumasi [Member] Kumasi [Member] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Leverage Ratio Maximum Leverage Ratios Maximum Leverage Ratio, maximum Maximum Leverage Ratio under credit facility Leverage Ratios Minimum Leverage Ratios Minimum Leverage Ratio, minimum Liabilities Total Liabilities Liabilities And Stockholders Equity Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity Liabilities And Stockholders Equity [Abstract] Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity Liabilities Current Total current liabilities Liabilities Noncurrent Total long-term liabilities Line Of Credit Facility Annual Principal Payment Credit facility repayment, rolling 12 months Line Of Credit Facility Expiration Date 1 Credit facility termination date Line Of Credit Facility Frequency Of Payments Repayment of borrowings Line Of Credit Facility Interest Rate Description Interest rate on credit facility Line Of Credit Facility [Line Items] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Line Of Credit Facility Maximum Borrowing Capacity Senior secured credit facility Line Of Credit Facility Maximum Retained Cash on Cash Sweep Day Line Of Credit Facility Maximum Retained Cash On Cash Sweep Day Permitted Retained cash on sweep date Line Of Credit Facility Periodic Payment Principal Credit facility actual repayment Line Of Credit Facility [Table] Line of Credit Facility [Table] Long Term Debt Credit facility, at US Dollar LIBOR + 3.50% to 3.75% Long term debt classification. Long Term Debt Classification Policy [Text Block] Classification of long term debt Long Term Debt Current Current portion of long-term debt (note 10) Less current instalments of long term debt Long-term Debt, Estimated, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months Longterm Debt Estimated Repayments Of Principal In Next Twelve Months 2014 Long-term Debt, Estimated, Repayments of Principal in Year Three Longterm Debt Estimated Repayments Of Principal In Year Three 2016 Long-term Debt, Estimated, Repayments of Principal in Year Two Longterm Debt Estimated Repayments Of Principal In Year Two 2015 Long Term Debt Noncurrent Long term debt Long-term debt (note 10) Long Term Debt [Text Block] Long Term Debt Term of the incentive plan. Long Term Incentive Plan Term Term of Equity Incentive Plan Management [Member] Management [Member] Management Member One [Member] Management Member One [Member] Three Members of Management [Member] Marie Delmas [Member] Marie Delmas [Member] Marie Delmas [Member] Maximum Contracted Charter Hire Receivable Maximum Contracted Charter Hire Receivable Maximum contracted charter hire receivable Total Operating leases Maximum [Member] Maximum [Member] Maximum Remaining Length Of Time Of Interest Rate Swaps Maximum Remaining Length Of Time Of Interest Rate Swaps Maximum length of time over which Company has hedged its interest rate exposure Maximum shares to any participant per year. Maximum Shares To Any Participant Per Year Maximum number of shares which may be granted to any participant in any fiscal year Merger cash flow projections discount rate. Merger Cash Flow Projections Discount Rate Discount rate of projected lease cash flow Minimum [Member] Minimum [Member] Minimum Preferred Shares Redemption Installment Minimum Preferred Shares Redemption Installment Minimum redemption installment Nature Of Expense [Axis] Nature of Expense [Axis] Nature Of Operations And Basis Of Preparation [Line Items] Nature Of Operations And Basis Of Preparation [Line Items] Nature Of Operations And Basis Of Preparation [Line Items] Nature Of Operations And Basis Of Preparation [Table] Nature Of Operations And Basis Of Preparation [Table] Nature Of Operations And Basis Of Preparation [Table] Nature Of Operations [Line Items] Nature Of Operations [Line Items] Nature Of Operations [Line Items] Nature Of Operations [Table] Nature Of Operations [Table] Nature Of Operations [Table] Net Cash Provided By Used In Financing Activities [Abstract] Cash Flows from Financing Activities Net Cash Provided By Used In Financing Activities Continuing Operations Net Cash Used in Financing Activities Net Cash Provided By Used In Investing Activities [Abstract] Cash Flows from Investing Activities Net Cash Provided By Used In Investing Activities Continuing Operations Net Cash Used in Investing Activities Net Cash Provided By Used In Operating Activities [Abstract] Cash Flows from Operating Activities Net Cash Provided By Used In Operating Activities Continuing Operations Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities Net Income Available To Class A Share Holders For Arrears Net Income Available To Classa Share Holders For Arrears Available to - Class A shareholders for arrears Net Income Loss Net Income Net Income Net income for the year Net Income Loss Available To Common Stockholders Basic Net income available to shareholders Net income available to shareholders Net Income Loss Available To Common Stockholders Diluted Net income available to shareholders Net income available to shareholders New Accounting Pronouncements Policy Policy [Text Block] Recently issued accounting standards Nominal Value Of Companies Interest Rate Agreements Qualify For Hedge Accounting Nominal Value Of Companies Interest Rate Agreements Qualify For Hedge Accounting Nominal value of company's interest rate agreements qualify for hedge accounting Nonoperating Income Expense [Abstract] Non Operating Income (Expense) Number of banks holding deposits of cash and cash equivalents Number Of Banks Holding Deposits Number of banks in which cash and cash equivalents deposited Number Of Charters Number Of Charters Number of charters Number Of Classes Of Common Stock Number Of Classes Of Common Stock Classes of common shares Number Of Members Number Of Members Number of members granted with restricted stock units Number of Preferred Shares Installments Number Of Preferred Shares Installments Redeemable preference shares, quarterly installments Number Of Subsidiaries. Number Of Subsidiaries Number of subsidiaries owned by the Company Number Of Vessels Chartered Number Of Vessels Chartered Number of vessels Number of vessels owned. Number Of Vessels Owned Number of vessels Number Of Vessels Pledged As Collateral Under Credit Facility Number Of Vessels Pledged As Collateral Under Credit Facility Number of vessels pledged as collateral under credit facility agreement Number Of Vessels Tested For Potential Impairment Number Of Vessels Tested For Potential Impairment Number of vessels tested for potential impairment Operating Income Loss Operating Income Organization Consolidation And Presentation Of Financial Statements [Abstract] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Organization Consolidation And Presentation Of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Nature of Operations and Basis of Preparation Other Comprehensive Income Loss Policy [Text Block] Other Comprehensive Income Loss Policy [Text Block] Other comprehensive income (loss) Other Income And Expenses [Abstract] Other Income and Expenses [Abstract] Other Income And Other Expense Disclosure [Text Block] Other Operating (Income) Expense Other Income [Member] Other Sundry Income [Member] Other Operating Income Other operating income Other operating income (note 11) Other Receivables Net Current Other receivables Payables And Accruals [Abstract] Payables and Accruals [Abstract] Payment Of Preferred Shares Dividends Payment Of Preferred Shares Dividends Preferred Shares Dividend Payments For Derivative Instrument Investing Activities Initial payments on derivatives Payments Of Debt Issuance Costs Issuance costs of debt Payments To Acquire Intangible Assets Cash paid for intangible assets Payments To Acquire Other Property Plant And Equipment Cash paid for other fixed assets Period between scheduled drydockings Period Between Scheduled Drydockings Period between scheduled regulatory drydockings Preferred Shares Policy [Text Block] Preferred Shares Policy [Text Block] Preferred shares Number of Preferred Shares Redeemed Preferred Shares Redemption Number Number of shares redeemed Preferred Stock Redemption Amount Redemption amount Preferred Stock Redemption Date Redeemable preference shares, redemption date Preferred Stock Redemption Price Per Share Redemption price per share Prepaid Expense Current Prepaid expenses Prepaid expenses (note 6) Prepaid Expenses Disclosure [Text Block] Prepaid Expenses Disclosure [Text Block] Prepaid Expenses Private Placement [Member] Private Placement [Member] Proceeds From Warrant Exercises Total proceeds from exercise of Public Warrants Property Plant And Equipment [Abstract] Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Property Plant And Equipment By Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property Plant And Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Vessels in Operation, less Accumulated Depreciation Property Plant And Equipment Impairment Long-lived assets Property Plant And Equipment Net Vessels in operation (note 4) Property Plant And Equipment Other Net Other fixed assets Property Plant And Equipment Policy [Text Block] Vessels Property Plant And Equipment [Text Block] Schedule of Vessels in Operation, Less Accumulated Depreciation Property Plant And Equipment Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property Plant And Equipment Useful Life Vessel estimated useful life Public Warrants [Member] Public Warrants [Member] Public Warrants [Member] Purchase Date Purchase Date Purchase Date by GSL Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Member] Range [Domain] Realized loss on interest rate derivatives which do not qualify for hedge accounting. Realized Loss On Interest Rate Derivatives Settlements of hedges which do not qualify for hedge accounting (note 15) Realized loss on interest rate derivatives Redeemable Preferred Shares Dividend Paid Redeemable Preferred Shares Dividend Paid Redeemable preferred shares dividend paid Aggregate stated value of issued preferred shares redeemable according to a redemption schedule. Redeemable Preferred Shares Value Issued Preferred shares (note 14) Redemption Of Preferred Shares. Redemption Of Preferred Shares Repayment of preferred shares (note 14) Refinancing Project [Member] Refinancing Project [Member] Refinancing Project [Member] Related Party [Domain] Related Party [Domain] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Related Party Transactions By Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Axis] Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Related Party Transactions Repairs And Maintenance Policy [Text Block] Repairs And Maintenance Policy [Text Block] Repairs and maintenance Repayments Of Debt Repayments of debt Required Class A common shares dividend per quarter. Required Classa Common Shares Dividend Per Quarter Required Class A common shares dividend per quarter Restricted Cash And Cash Equivalents Noncurrent Restricted cash (note 14) Restricted stock share based compensation vesting period. Restricted Stock Share Based Compensation Vesting Period Restricted stock share based compensation vesting period Restricted stock units share based compensation awards granted Restricted Stock Units Share Based Compensation Awards Granted Granted, Number of Units Restricted stock units share based compensation awards number vested. Restricted Stock Units Share Based Compensation Awards Number Vested Restricted stock units share based compensation awards number vested Restricted Stock Units Share Based Compensation Awards Share Value On Vesting Date Restricted Stock Units Share Based Compensation Awards Share Value On Vesting Date Actual Fair Value on Vesting Date Restricted Stock Units Share Based Compensation Awards Vested In Period Restricted Stock Units Share Based Compensation Awards Vested In Period Vested, Number of Units Retained Earnings Accumulated Deficit Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) [Member] Retained Earnings Accumulated Deficit [Member] Retained Earnings / (Accumulated Deficit) [Member] Revenue Recognition Policy [Text Block] Revenue recognition and related operating expense Revenues [Abstract] Operating Revenues Risks And Uncertainties [Abstract] Risks and Uncertainties [Abstract] Sales [Member] Sales [Member] Scenario Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Schedule Of Commitments And Contingencies Table [Text Block] Schedule Of Commitments And Contingencies Table [Text Block] Maximum Contracted Future Annual Charter Hire Receivable Before Allowance for Any Off-Hire periods Schedule Of Debt Instruments [Text Block] Schedule of Long Term Debt Schedule Of Deferred Financing Costs [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Deferred Financing Costs Table [Text Block] Schedule of Deferred Financing Cost Schedule Of Derivative Instruments [Text Block] Derivative Interest Rate Agreements Schedule Of Derivative Liabilities At Fair Value Table [Text Block] Fair Value of Derivative Financial Instruments Schedule Of Earnings Per Share Basic And Diluted Table [Text Block] Earnings per Share Schedule Of Finite Lived Intangible Assets Table [Text Block] Schedule of Intangible Assets Schedule Of Finite Lived Intangible Liabilities [Table] Schedule Of Finite Lived Intangible Liabilities [Table] Schedule Of Finite Lived Intangible Liabilities [Table] Schedule of intangible liabilities charter agreements. Schedule Of Intangible Liabilities Charter Agreements Table [Text Block] Schedule of Intangible Liability Schedule of Other Operating Income Expense [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Other Operating Income Expense Table [Text Block] Schedule of Other Operating (Income) Expense Schedule Of Related Party Transactions By Related Party [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule Of Related Party Transactions Table [Text Block] Summary of Amounts Due to and from CMA CGM Companies Schedule Of Share Based Compensation Arrangements By Share Based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule Of Share Based Compensation Restricted Stock Units Award Activity Table [Text Block] Summary of Issued Share Based Awards Schedule Of Stock By Class [Table] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Schedule of vessels and their charters. Schedule Of Vessels And Charters Table [Text Block] Schedule of Vessels Chartered Schedule Prepaid Expenses and other assets [Line Items] Schedule Prepaid Expenses And Other Assets [Line Items] Schedule Prepaid Expenses and other assets [Line Items] Schedule Prepaid Expenses and other assets [Table] Schedule Prepaid Expenses And Other Assets [Table] Schedule Prepaid Expenses and other assets [Table] Secured Debt Aggregate principal amount Secured Debt Maturity Year Secured Debt Maturity Year Secured notes due, year Segment [Domain] Segments [Domain] Segment Geographical [Domain] Geographical [Domain] Senior Secured Notes Due Two Thousand Nineteen [Member] Senior Secured Notes Due Two Thousand Nineteen [Member] First Priority Secured Notes Due 2019 [Member] Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility Senior secured credit facility Series A Preferred Stock [Member] Series A Preferred Stock [Member] Settlement of interest rate derivatives which do not qualify for hedge accounting. Settlement Of Interest Rate Derivatives Settlements of hedges which do not qualify for hedge accounting (note 15) Share Based Compensation Share based compensation (note 16) Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Grants In Period Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Granted, Weighted Average Fair Value on Grant Date Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Nonvested Number Unvested restricted stock units Unvested, Number of Units Balance Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Nonvested Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Unvested, Weighted Average Fair Value on Grant Date Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Vested In Period Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Vested, Weighted Average Fair Value on Grant Date Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Number Of Shares Authorized Stock granted under Equity Incentive Plan Share Based Compensation Option And Incentive Plans Policy Share based compensation Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Significant Accounting Policies Software Development Additions Software Development Additions Additions Statement Business Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Statement Class Of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Statement Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Statement Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Statement Of Cash Flows [Abstract] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Statement Of Financial Position [Abstract] Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Statement Of Partners Capital [Abstract] Statement of Partners' Capital [Abstract] Statement Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Stockholders Equity Balance Balance Total Stockholders' Equity Stockholders Equity [Abstract] Stockholders' Equity Disclosure for classes of shareholders' equity, including preferred stock, including but not limited to, dividend rights. Stockholders Equity Disclosure [Text Block] Share Capital Stock Issued During Period Shares New Issues Class A shares issued, shares (notes 14,16) Stock Issued During Period Value New Issues Class A shares issued (notes 14, 16) Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Events [Member] Subsequent Events [Abstract] Subsequent Events [Abstract] Subsequent Events [Text Block] Subsequent events Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Sundry Shipping Income [Member] Sundry Shipping Income [Member] Sundry Shipping Income [Member] Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Supplemental Information Term Of Waiver For Leverage Ratio Term Of Waiver For Leverage Ratio Additional term of waiver for Leverage Ratio test Term of waiver for Leverage Ratio test Text Block [Abstract] Text Block [Abstract] Aggregate revenue during the reporting period from services rendered in the normal course of business, after deducting allowances and discounts and including amortization of charter agreement intangible liability. Time Charter Revenue Net Time charter revenue Title Of Individual [Axis] Title of Individual [Axis] Title Of Individual With Relationship To Entity [Domain] Relationship to Entity [Domain] Tonnage Tax Expense Included In Operating Expense Tonnage Tax Expense Included In Operating Expense Tonnage tax included within operating expenses Trade And Other Accounts Receivable Policy Accounts receivable Trading Symbol Trading Symbol Unrealized Gain Loss On Derivatives Unrealized gain (loss) on interest rate derivatives (note 15) Unrealized gain / (loss) on interest rate derivatives Change in fair value of derivative instruments (note 15) Use Of Estimates Use of estimates Vessel additions in period Vessel Additions Additions in the period Vessel Depreciation Expense Vessel Depreciation Expense Depreciation expense Vessel Net Book Value Variations [Table Text Block] Vessel Net Book Value Variations Table [Text Block] Schedule of Variations in Net Book Value of Vessels Including Drydocking The aggregate vessel operating expenses incurred during the reporting period. Vessel Operating Expenses Vessel operating expenses Vessels in Operation Cost Vessels In Operation Cost Cost The gross carrying amount of seagoing vessels used for the primary purpose of the carriage of cargo, including a drydock component, net of accumulated amortization and any impairment. Vessels In Operation Net Closing balance Opening balance Net book value Vested In January [Member] Vested In January [Member] Vested in January [Member] Vested In October [Member] Vested In October [Member] Vested in October [Member] Vested In September [Member] Vested In September [Member] Vested in September [Member] Ville D Aquarius [Member] Ville D Aquarius [Member] Ville d' Aquarius [Member] Ville D Orion [Member] Ville D Orion [Member] Ville d' Orion [Member] Voting Interest Voting Interest Voting Interest Warrants To Purchase Common Stock Exercise Price Warrants To Purchase Common Stock Exercise Price Exercise price of warrants Warrants To Purchase Common Stock Outstanding. Warrants To Purchase Common Stock Outstanding Warrants convertible to common shares Weighted Average Interest Swap Rate Weighted Average Interest Swap Rate Weighted average rate Weighted Average Number Of Diluted Shares Outstanding Diluted (note 18) Common shares and common share equivalents Weighted average number of Restricted Stick Units (RSUs) without service conditions. Weighted Average Number Of Restricted Stock Units Without Service Conditions Weighted average number of RSU's without service conditions (note 16) Weighted Average Number Of Shares Outstanding [Abstract] Weighted average number of common shares outstanding Weighted Average Number Of Shares Outstanding Basic Basic (note 18) Weighted average number of common shares outstanding Number of [basic] shares or units, excluding adjustment for contingently issuable units and units not deemed outstanding, determined by relating the portion of time within a reporting period that common shares or units have been outstanding to the total time in that period. Weighted Average Number Of Shares Outstanding Basic Excluding Restricted Stock Units Without Service Conditions Weighted average number of common shares outstanding Year Built Year Built Year Built Yildrim Group [Member] Yildrim Group [Member] Yildrim Group [Member]