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Document and Entity Information (USD $)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2012
Jun. 30, 2012
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]    
Entity Registrant Name NORDIC AMERICAN TANKERS Ltd  
Entity Central Index Key 0001000177  
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-31  
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Yes  
Entity Voluntary Filers No  
Entity Current Reporting Status Yes  
Entity Filer Category Large Accelerated Filer  
Entity Public Float   $ 698,534,829
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding 52,915,639  
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2012  
Document Fiscal Period Focus FY  
Document Type 20-F  
Amendment Flag false  
Document Period End Date Dec. 31, 2012