| Document and Entity Information | Oct. 04, 2021 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | ODYSSEY MARINE EXPLORATION INC |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000798528 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Oct. 4, 2021 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | NV |
| Entity File Number | 001-31895 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 84-1018684 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 205 S. Hoover Blvd. |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Suite 210 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Tampa |
| Entity Address, State or Province | FL |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 33609 |
| City Area Code | (813) |
| Local Phone Number | 876-1776 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, par value $0.0001 per share |
| Trading Symbol | OMEX |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
