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Equity Investments (Distributions From Equity Investments) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified | 12 Months Ended
--- | ---
Dec. 31, 2011 | Dec. 31, 2010 | Dec. 31, 2009
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] |  |  |
Distributions from equity investments | $ 26,180 | $ 30,008 | $ 32,750
Deepwater Gateway [Member] |  |  |
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] |  |  |
Distributions from equity investments | 7,600 | 8,125 | 6,750
Independence Hub [Member] |  |  |
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] |  |  |
Distributions from equity investments | 18,580 | 21,615 | 26,000
Other [Member] |  |  |
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] |  |  |
Distributions from equity investments |  | $ 268 |

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