<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?>
<!--XBRL document created with Toppan Merrill Bridge  11.3.0.1 -->
<!--Based on XBRL 2.1-->
<!--Created on: 4/24/2026 9:14:43 PM-->
<!--Modified on: 4/24/2026 9:14:43 PM-->
<link:linkbase xmlns:xsi="http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema-instance" xmlns:link="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" xsi:schemaLocation="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase http://www.xbrl.org/2003/xbrl-linkbase-2003-12-31.xsd" xmlns:xbrli="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/instance">
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DocumentDocumentAndEntityInformation" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DocumentDocumentAndEntityInformation" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#StatementConsolidatedBalanceSheets" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/StatementConsolidatedBalanceSheets" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#StatementConsolidatedBalanceSheetsParenthetical" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/StatementConsolidatedBalanceSheetsParenthetical" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfOperations" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfOperations" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfComprehensiveIncomeLoss" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfComprehensiveIncomeLoss" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfShareholdersEquity" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfShareholdersEquity" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfCashFlows" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfCashFlows" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndNewAccountingStandards" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndNewAccountingStandards" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureCompanyOverview" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureCompanyOverview" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureDetailsOfCertainAccounts" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureDetailsOfCertainAccounts" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureLeases" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureLeases" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureLongTermDebt" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureLongTermDebt" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureIncomeTaxes" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxes" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureShareRepurchasePrograms" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureShareRepurchasePrograms" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomers" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomers" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureEarningsPerShare" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureEarningsPerShare" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureEmployeeBenefitPlans" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureEmployeeBenefitPlans" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureBusinessSegmentInformation" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureBusinessSegmentInformation" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureAssetRetirementObligations" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureAssetRetirementObligations" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesAndOtherMatters" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesAndOtherMatters" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureStatementOfCashFlowInformation" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureStatementOfCashFlowInformation" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureAllowanceForCreditLosses" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureAllowanceForCreditLosses" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureFairValueMeasurements" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureFairValueMeasurements" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureSubsequentEvents" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureSubsequentEvents" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesPolicy" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesPolicy" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureDetailsOfCertainAccountsTables" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureDetailsOfCertainAccountsTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureLeasesTables" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureLeasesTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureLongTermDebtTables" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureLongTermDebtTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersTables" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureEarningsPerShareTables" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureEarningsPerShareTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureEmployeeBenefitPlansTables" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureEmployeeBenefitPlansTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureBusinessSegmentInformationTables" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureBusinessSegmentInformationTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureAssetRetirementObligationsTables" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureAssetRetirementObligationsTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureStatementOfCashFlowInformationTables" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureStatementOfCashFlowInformationTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureAllowanceForCreditLossesTables" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureAllowanceForCreditLossesTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureFairValueMeasurementsTables" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureFairValueMeasurementsTables" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureCompanyOverviewDetails" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureCompanyOverviewDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureDetailsOfCertainAccountsOtherCurrentAssetsDetails" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureDetailsOfCertainAccountsOtherCurrentAssetsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureDetailsOfCertainAccountsOtherAssetsNetDetails" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureDetailsOfCertainAccountsOtherAssetsNetDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureDetailsOfCertainAccountsAccruedLiabilitiesDetails" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureDetailsOfCertainAccountsAccruedLiabilitiesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureDetailsOfCertainAccountsOtherNonCurrentLiabilitiesDetails" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureDetailsOfCertainAccountsOtherNonCurrentLiabilitiesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureLeasesComponentsOfLeaseCostDetails" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureLeasesComponentsOfLeaseCostDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureLeasesMaturitiesOfOperatingLeaseLiabilitiesDetails" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureLeasesMaturitiesOfOperatingLeaseLiabilitiesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureLeasesWeightedAverageRemainingLeaseTermAndDiscountRateDetails" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureLeasesWeightedAverageRemainingLeaseTermAndDiscountRateDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureLeasesOtherInformationRelatedToOperatingLeasesDetails" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureLeasesOtherInformationRelatedToOperatingLeasesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureLongTermDebtMaturitiesOfLongTermDebtDetails" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureLongTermDebtMaturitiesOfLongTermDebtDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureLongTermDebtCreditAgreementDetails" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureLongTermDebtCreditAgreementDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureLongTermDebtMaradDebtDetails" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureLongTermDebtMaradDebtDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureLongTermDebt2029NotesDetails" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureLongTermDebt2029NotesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureLongTermDebtComponentsOfNetInterestExpenseDetails" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureLongTermDebtComponentsOfNetInterestExpenseDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureIncomeTaxesEffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationDetails" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxesEffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureShareRepurchaseProgramsDetails" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureShareRepurchaseProgramsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersDisaggregationOfRevenueDetails" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersDisaggregationOfRevenueDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersNarrativeDetails" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersNarrativeDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureEarningsPerShareComputationsOfBasicAndDilutedEpsDetails" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureEarningsPerShareComputationsOfBasicAndDilutedEpsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureEarningsPerShareSharesIncludedInDilutedCalculationsAssumingEarningsDetails" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureEarningsPerShareSharesIncludedInDilutedCalculationsAssumingEarningsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureEmployeeBenefitPlansNarrativeDetails" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureEmployeeBenefitPlansNarrativeDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureEmployeeBenefitPlansGrantsOfShareBasedAwardsDetails" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureEmployeeBenefitPlansGrantsOfShareBasedAwardsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureBusinessSegmentInformationNarrativeDetails" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureBusinessSegmentInformationNarrativeDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureBusinessSegmentInformationMeasureOfSegmentProfitOrLossDetails" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureBusinessSegmentInformationMeasureOfSegmentProfitOrLossDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureBusinessSegmentInformationReconciliationOfSegmentProfitDetails" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureBusinessSegmentInformationReconciliationOfSegmentProfitDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureBusinessSegmentInformationItemsProvidedToCodmDetails" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureBusinessSegmentInformationItemsProvidedToCodmDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureAssetRetirementObligationsChangesInArosDetails" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureAssetRetirementObligationsChangesInArosDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesAndOtherMattersDetails" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesAndOtherMattersDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureStatementOfCashFlowInformationSupplementalCashFlowInformationDetails" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureStatementOfCashFlowInformationSupplementalCashFlowInformationDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureStatementOfCashFlowInformationNarrativeDetails" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureStatementOfCashFlowInformationNarrativeDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureAllowanceForCreditLossesActivitiesInAllowanceForCreditLossesDetails" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureAllowanceForCreditLossesActivitiesInAllowanceForCreditLossesDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureFairValueMeasurementsPrincipalAmountAndEstimatedFairValueOfLongTermDebtDetails" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureFairValueMeasurementsPrincipalAmountAndEstimatedFairValueOfLongTermDebtDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#DisclosureSubsequentEventsDetails" roleURI="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureSubsequentEventsDetails" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/ecd/2025/ecd-2025.xsd#InsiderTradingArrangements" roleURI="http://xbrl.sec.gov/ecd/role/InsiderTradingArrangements" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DocumentDocumentAndEntityInformation" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995200090 - Document - Document And Entity Information" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:label="hlx_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_DocumentType" xlink:label="dei_DocumentType_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_DocumentType_639126620825348985" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_DocumentQuarterlyReport" xlink:label="dei_DocumentQuarterlyReport_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_DocumentQuarterlyReport_639126620825348985" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate" xlink:label="dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate_639126620825348985" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_DocumentTransitionReport" xlink:label="dei_DocumentTransitionReport_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_DocumentTransitionReport_639126620825348985" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityFileNumber" xlink:label="dei_EntityFileNumber_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityFileNumber_639126620825348985" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityRegistrantName" xlink:label="dei_EntityRegistrantName_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityRegistrantName_639126620825348985" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityIncorporationStateCountryCode" xlink:label="dei_EntityIncorporationStateCountryCode_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityIncorporationStateCountryCode_639126620825348985" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityTaxIdentificationNumber" xlink:label="dei_EntityTaxIdentificationNumber_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityTaxIdentificationNumber_639126620825348985" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityAddressAddressLine1" xlink:label="dei_EntityAddressAddressLine1_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityAddressAddressLine1_639126620825348985" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityAddressAddressLine2" xlink:label="dei_EntityAddressAddressLine2_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityAddressAddressLine2_639126620825348985" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityAddressCityOrTown" xlink:label="dei_EntityAddressCityOrTown_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityAddressCityOrTown_639126620825348985" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityAddressStateOrProvince" xlink:label="dei_EntityAddressStateOrProvince_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityAddressStateOrProvince_639126620825348985" order="12" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityAddressPostalZipCode" xlink:label="dei_EntityAddressPostalZipCode_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityAddressPostalZipCode_639126620825348985" order="13" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_CityAreaCode" xlink:label="dei_CityAreaCode_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_CityAreaCode_639126620825348985" order="14" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_LocalPhoneNumber" xlink:label="dei_LocalPhoneNumber_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_LocalPhoneNumber_639126620825348985" order="15" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_Security12bTitle" xlink:label="dei_Security12bTitle_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_Security12bTitle_639126620825348985" order="16" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_TradingSymbol" xlink:label="dei_TradingSymbol_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_TradingSymbol_639126620825348985" order="17" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_SecurityExchangeName" xlink:label="dei_SecurityExchangeName_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_SecurityExchangeName_639126620825348985" order="18" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus" xlink:label="dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus_639126620825348985" order="19" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityInteractiveDataCurrent" xlink:label="dei_EntityInteractiveDataCurrent_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityInteractiveDataCurrent_639126620825348985" order="20" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityFilerCategory" xlink:label="dei_EntityFilerCategory_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityFilerCategory_639126620825348985" order="21" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntitySmallBusiness" xlink:label="dei_EntitySmallBusiness_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntitySmallBusiness_639126620825348985" order="22" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityEmergingGrowthCompany" xlink:label="dei_EntityEmergingGrowthCompany_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityEmergingGrowthCompany_639126620825348985" order="23" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityShellCompany" xlink:label="dei_EntityShellCompany_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityShellCompany_639126620825348985" order="24" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding_639126620825348985" order="25" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_EntityCentralIndexKey" xlink:label="dei_EntityCentralIndexKey_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_EntityCentralIndexKey_639126620825348985" order="26" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate" xlink:label="dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate_639126620825348985" order="27" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus" xlink:label="dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus_639126620825348985" order="28" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus" xlink:label="dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus_639126620825348985" order="29" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2025/dei-2025.xsd#dei_AmendmentFlag" xlink:label="dei_AmendmentFlag_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DocumentAndEntityInformationAbstract" xlink:to="dei_AmendmentFlag_639126620825348985" order="30" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/StatementConsolidatedBalanceSheets" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995200100 - Statement - CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract_93d3bf21-20e7-476a-91c7-2b6e896f59ef" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract_93d3bf21-20e7-476a-91c7-2b6e896f59ef" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_639126620825348985" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_639126620825348985" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue_639126620825348985" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrent_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrent_639126620825348985" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OtherAssetsCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherAssetsCurrent_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherAssetsCurrent_639126620825348985" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsCurrent_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsCurrent_639126620825348985" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross_639126620825348985" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AccumulatedDepreciationDepletionAndAmortizationPropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccumulatedDepreciationDepletionAndAmortizationPropertyPlantAndEquipment_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccumulatedDepreciationDepletionAndAmortizationPropertyPlantAndEquipment_639126620825348985" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet_639126620825348985" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseRightOfUseAsset_639126620825348985" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_DeferredCertificationAndDryDockCostsNet" xlink:label="hlx_DeferredCertificationAndDryDockCostsNet_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="hlx_DeferredCertificationAndDryDockCostsNet_639126620825348985" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OtherAssetsNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherAssetsNoncurrent_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherAssetsNoncurrent_639126620825348985" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_Assets" xlink:label="us-gaap_Assets_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_Assets_639126620825348985" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract_93d3bf21-20e7-476a-91c7-2b6e896f59ef" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_639126620825348985" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_639126620825348985" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent_639126620825348985" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrent_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrent_639126620825348985" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent_639126620825348985" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityCurrent_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityCurrent_639126620825348985" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrent_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrent_639126620825348985" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent_639126620825348985" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent_639126620825348985" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxLiabilitiesNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxLiabilitiesNet_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxLiabilitiesNet_639126620825348985" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrent_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrent_639126620825348985" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_Liabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_Liabilities_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_Liabilities_639126620825348985" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingencies" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingencies_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingencies_639126620825348985" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_639126620825348985" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockValue_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockValue_639126620825348985" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit_639126620825348985" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax_639126620825348985" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity_639126620825348985" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity_639126620825348985" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/StatementConsolidatedBalanceSheetsParenthetical" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995200105 - Statement - CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract_ee7b7a6b-9640-4429-8bb5-8defe6158056" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract_ee7b7a6b-9640-4429-8bb5-8defe6158056" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_639126620825348985" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_639126620825348985" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivableCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivableCurrent_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivableCurrent_639126620825348985" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfFinancialPositionAbstract_ee7b7a6b-9640-4429-8bb5-8defe6158056" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_639126620825348985" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_639126620825348985" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare_639126620825348985" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized_639126620825348985" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued_639126620825348985" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfOperations" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995200200 - Statement - CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract_99617c11-66ac-4f42-959d-37aa62f90aa0" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract_99617c11-66ac-4f42-959d-37aa62f90aa0" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax_639126620825348985" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CostOfRevenue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CostOfRevenue_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract_99617c11-66ac-4f42-959d-37aa62f90aa0" xlink:to="us-gaap_CostOfRevenue_639126620825348985" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_GrossProfit" xlink:label="us-gaap_GrossProfit_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract_99617c11-66ac-4f42-959d-37aa62f90aa0" xlink:to="us-gaap_GrossProfit_639126620825348985" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract_99617c11-66ac-4f42-959d-37aa62f90aa0" xlink:to="us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense_639126620825348985" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract_99617c11-66ac-4f42-959d-37aa62f90aa0" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss_639126620825348985" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InterestIncomeExpenseNonoperatingNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestIncomeExpenseNonoperatingNet_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract_99617c11-66ac-4f42-959d-37aa62f90aa0" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestIncomeExpenseNonoperatingNet_639126620825348985" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract_99617c11-66ac-4f42-959d-37aa62f90aa0" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense_639126620825348985" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_RoyaltyIncomeAndOther" xlink:label="hlx_RoyaltyIncomeAndOther_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract_99617c11-66ac-4f42-959d-37aa62f90aa0" xlink:to="hlx_RoyaltyIncomeAndOther_639126620825348985" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract_99617c11-66ac-4f42-959d-37aa62f90aa0" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest_639126620825348985" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract_99617c11-66ac-4f42-959d-37aa62f90aa0" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit_639126620825348985" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract_99617c11-66ac-4f42-959d-37aa62f90aa0" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_639126620825348985" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract_99617c11-66ac-4f42-959d-37aa62f90aa0" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_639126620825348985" order="12" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic_639126620825348985" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted_639126620825348985" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingAbstract_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_IncomeStatementAbstract_99617c11-66ac-4f42-959d-37aa62f90aa0" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingAbstract_639126620825348985" order="13" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic_639126620825348985" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding_639126620825348985" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfComprehensiveIncomeLoss" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995200300 - Statement - CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementOfIncomeAndComprehensiveIncomeAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfIncomeAndComprehensiveIncomeAbstract_9c5c8896-d8d7-4a0b-a0c5-2e6ff2207c42" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfIncomeAndComprehensiveIncomeAbstract_9c5c8896-d8d7-4a0b-a0c5-2e6ff2207c42" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_639126620825348985" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossForeignCurrencyTransactionAndTranslationAdjustmentNetOfTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossForeignCurrencyTransactionAndTranslationAdjustmentNetOfTax_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfIncomeAndComprehensiveIncomeAbstract_9c5c8896-d8d7-4a0b-a0c5-2e6ff2207c42" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossForeignCurrencyTransactionAndTranslationAdjustmentNetOfTax_639126620825348985" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTaxIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTaxIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfIncomeAndComprehensiveIncomeAbstract_9c5c8896-d8d7-4a0b-a0c5-2e6ff2207c42" xlink:to="us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTaxIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest_639126620825348985" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfShareholdersEquity" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995200400 - Statement - CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementOfStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfStockholdersEquityAbstract_ef159e07-c3b3-4fb7-80ba-89fa181c4806" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfStockholdersEquityAbstract_ef159e07-c3b3-4fb7-80ba-89fa181c4806" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable_639126620825348985" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_639126620825348985" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockMember_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockMember_639126620825348985" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember_639126620825348985" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember_639126620825348985" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain_639126620825348985" order="4" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_639126620825348985" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_639126620825348985" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity_639126620825348985" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding_639126620825348985" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_639126620825348985" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossForeignCurrencyTransactionAndTranslationAdjustmentNetOfTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossForeignCurrencyTransactionAndTranslationAdjustmentNetOfTax_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossForeignCurrencyTransactionAndTranslationAdjustmentNetOfTax_639126620825348985" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodValueChangeInCompanyStockPlanNetAndOthers" xlink:label="hlx_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodValueChangeInCompanyStockPlanNetAndOthers_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_639126620825348985" xlink:to="hlx_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodValueChangeInCompanyStockPlanNetAndOthers_639126620825348985" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodSharesChangeInCompanyStockPlanNetAndOthers" xlink:label="hlx_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodSharesChangeInCompanyStockPlanNetAndOthers_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_639126620825348985" xlink:to="hlx_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodSharesChangeInCompanyStockPlanNetAndOthers_639126620825348985" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueShareBasedCompensation" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueShareBasedCompensation_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueShareBasedCompensation_639126620825348985" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity_6391266208253489851" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity_6391266208253489851" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding_6391266208253489851" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInStockholdersEquityRollForward_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding_6391266208253489851" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/StatementConsolidatedStatementsOfCashFlows" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995200500 - Statement - CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract_b52da233-0994-4a10-8c8a-2a27ca2b6561" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract_b52da233-0994-4a10-8c8a-2a27ca2b6561" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_639126620825348985" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ProfitLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProfitLoss_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProfitLoss_639126620825348985" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_639126620825348985" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_DepreciationAndAmortizationExcludingAmortizationOfDeferredCertificationAndDryDockCosts" xlink:label="hlx_DepreciationAndAmortizationExcludingAmortizationOfDeferredCertificationAndDryDockCosts_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="hlx_DepreciationAndAmortizationExcludingAmortizationOfDeferredCertificationAndDryDockCosts_639126620825348985" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_AmortizationOfDeferredCertificationAndDryDockCosts" xlink:label="hlx_AmortizationOfDeferredCertificationAndDryDockCosts_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="hlx_AmortizationOfDeferredCertificationAndDryDockCosts_639126620825348985" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_PaymentsForDeferredCertificationAndDryDockCosts" xlink:label="hlx_PaymentsForDeferredCertificationAndDryDockCosts_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="hlx_PaymentsForDeferredCertificationAndDryDockCosts_639126620825348985" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AmortizationOfDebtDiscountPremium" xlink:label="us-gaap_AmortizationOfDebtDiscountPremium_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_AmortizationOfDebtDiscountPremium_639126620825348985" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AmortizationOfFinancingCosts" xlink:label="us-gaap_AmortizationOfFinancingCosts_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_AmortizationOfFinancingCosts_639126620825348985" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation_639126620825348985" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit_639126620825348985" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ForeignCurrencyTransactionGainLossUnrealized" xlink:label="us-gaap_ForeignCurrencyTransactionGainLossUnrealized_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_ForeignCurrencyTransactionGainLossUnrealized_639126620825348985" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedTerseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract_639126620825348985" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsReceivable" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsReceivable_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsReceivable_639126620825348985" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherCurrentAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherCurrentAssets_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherCurrentAssets_639126620825348985" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInIncomeTaxesReceivable" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInIncomeTaxesReceivable_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInIncomeTaxesReceivable_639126620825348985" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilities_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilities_639126620825348985" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingCapitalNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingCapitalNet_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingCapitalNet_639126620825348985" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities_639126620825348985" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract_b52da233-0994-4a10-8c8a-2a27ca2b6561" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract_639126620825348985" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireProductiveAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireProductiveAssets_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireProductiveAssets_639126620825348985" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities_639126620825348985" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract_b52da233-0994-4a10-8c8a-2a27ca2b6561" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract_639126620825348985" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_RepaymentsOfSecuredDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfSecuredDebt_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfSecuredDebt_639126620825348985" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsRelatedToTaxWithholdingForShareBasedCompensation" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsRelatedToTaxWithholdingForShareBasedCompensation_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsRelatedToTaxWithholdingForShareBasedCompensation_639126620825348985" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromStockPlans" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromStockPlans_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromStockPlans_639126620825348985" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities_639126620825348985" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_EffectOfExchangeRateOnCashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents" xlink:label="us-gaap_EffectOfExchangeRateOnCashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract_b52da233-0994-4a10-8c8a-2a27ca2b6561" xlink:to="us-gaap_EffectOfExchangeRateOnCashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents_639126620825348985" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecreaseIncludingExchangeRateEffect" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecreaseIncludingExchangeRateEffect_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract_b52da233-0994-4a10-8c8a-2a27ca2b6561" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecreaseIncludingExchangeRateEffect_639126620825348985" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValueAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValueAbstract_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_StatementOfCashFlowsAbstract_b52da233-0994-4a10-8c8a-2a27ca2b6561" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValueAbstract_639126620825348985" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents_639126620825348985" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValueAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents_639126620825348985" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents_6391266208253489851" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValueAbstract_639126620825348985" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashCashEquivalentsRestrictedCashAndRestrictedCashEquivalents_6391266208253489851" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="2" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureBasisOfPresentationAndNewAccountingStandards" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995210101 - Disclosure - Basis of Presentation and New Accounting Standards" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsAbstract_2d82fd24-ba62-4f79-b9aa-3bc68a247270" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsDisclosureTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsAbstract_2d82fd24-ba62-4f79-b9aa-3bc68a247270" xlink:to="us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsDisclosureTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureCompanyOverview" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995210201 - Disclosure - Company Overview" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsAbstract_b0c2235f-b1fc-4b2a-b0ce-366d31755cc5" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NatureOfOperations" xlink:label="us-gaap_NatureOfOperations_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsAbstract_b0c2235f-b1fc-4b2a-b0ce-366d31755cc5" xlink:to="us-gaap_NatureOfOperations_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureDetailsOfCertainAccounts" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995210301 - Disclosure - Details of Certain Accounts" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_DetailsOfCertainAccountsAbstract" xlink:label="hlx_DetailsOfCertainAccountsAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SupplementalBalanceSheetDisclosuresTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_SupplementalBalanceSheetDisclosuresTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DetailsOfCertainAccountsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_SupplementalBalanceSheetDisclosuresTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureLeases" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995210401 - Disclosure - Leases" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LeasesAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_3a74316b-ea16-42ca-a6c7-a62fd1abccfc" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeasesTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeasesTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_3a74316b-ea16-42ca-a6c7-a62fd1abccfc" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeasesTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureLongTermDebt" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995210501 - Disclosure - Long-Term Debt" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract_78bf3de2-f1c6-4ab4-9626-f7cda65c881f" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract_78bf3de2-f1c6-4ab4-9626-f7cda65c881f" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxes" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995210601 - Disclosure - Income Taxes" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureAbstract_dcde0aa5-7ec8-4f38-92da-c38d13a2d930" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureAbstract_dcde0aa5-7ec8-4f38-92da-c38d13a2d930" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureShareRepurchasePrograms" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995210701 - Disclosure - Share Repurchase Programs" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_EquityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityAbstract_637666417111073843" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_TreasuryStockTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_TreasuryStockTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityAbstract_637666417111073843" xlink:to="us-gaap_TreasuryStockTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomers" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995210801 - Disclosure - Revenue from Contracts with Customers" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract_62057bcd-5c3a-47c1-8ee0-740d7f30a165" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract_62057bcd-5c3a-47c1-8ee0-740d7f30a165" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureEarningsPerShare" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995210901 - Disclosure - Earnings Per Share" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_6fc6834b-ccfa-4cec-90be-cc8b7d812f7b" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_6fc6834b-ccfa-4cec-90be-cc8b7d812f7b" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureEmployeeBenefitPlans" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995211001 - Disclosure - Employee Benefit Plans" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_0b89c7f5-1992-4af0-bd5d-80f84ebce875" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CompensationAndEmployeeBenefitPlansTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_CompensationAndEmployeeBenefitPlansTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_0b89c7f5-1992-4af0-bd5d-80f84ebce875" xlink:to="us-gaap_CompensationAndEmployeeBenefitPlansTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureBusinessSegmentInformation" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995211101 - Disclosure - Business Segment Information" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract_68c74f00-666d-496d-b581-25c0004facb4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingDisclosureTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract_68c74f00-666d-496d-b581-25c0004facb4" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentReportingDisclosureTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureAssetRetirementObligations" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995211201 - Disclosure - Asset Retirement Obligations" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationDisclosureAbstract_305f180e-4890-45e1-b182-c777cbcbb70f" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationDisclosureTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationDisclosureAbstract_305f180e-4890-45e1-b182-c777cbcbb70f" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationDisclosureTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesAndOtherMatters" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995211301 - Disclosure - Commitments and Contingencies and Other Matters" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract_86875962-1366-440e-a795-52f7d01ca6fc" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract_86875962-1366-440e-a795-52f7d01ca6fc" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureStatementOfCashFlowInformation" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995211401 - Disclosure - Statement of Cash Flow Information" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract_8699dff4-e8c7-4bd2-a6b7-ad88a095ca8d" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CashFlowSupplementalDisclosuresTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashFlowSupplementalDisclosuresTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract_8699dff4-e8c7-4bd2-a6b7-ad88a095ca8d" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashFlowSupplementalDisclosuresTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureAllowanceForCreditLosses" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995211501 - Disclosure - Allowance for Credit Losses" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CreditLossAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_CreditLossAbstract_a968ae91-3caf-4ada-b65f-214df8d08434" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AllowanceForCreditLossesTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_AllowanceForCreditLossesTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_CreditLossAbstract_a968ae91-3caf-4ada-b65f-214df8d08434" xlink:to="us-gaap_AllowanceForCreditLossesTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureFairValueMeasurements" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995211601 - Disclosure - Fair Value Measurements" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract_0016c608-2686-4350-9d30-a9bff2b0d8f4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract_0016c608-2686-4350-9d30-a9bff2b0d8f4" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureSubsequentEvents" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995211701 - Disclosure - Subsequent Events" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventsAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventsTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventsTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventsTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureSummaryOfSignificantAccountingPoliciesPolicy" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99920202 - Disclosure - Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Policy)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_637666417111083822" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_BasisOfAccountingPolicyPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_BasisOfAccountingPolicyPolicyTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_637666417111083822" xlink:to="us-gaap_BasisOfAccountingPolicyPolicyTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PriorPeriodReclassificationAdjustmentDescription" xlink:label="us-gaap_PriorPeriodReclassificationAdjustmentDescription_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_637666417111083822" xlink:to="us-gaap_PriorPeriodReclassificationAdjustmentDescription_639126620825506480" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsPolicyPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsPolicyPolicyTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract_637666417111083822" xlink:to="us-gaap_NewAccountingPronouncementsPolicyPolicyTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureDetailsOfCertainAccountsTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99930303 - Disclosure - Details of Certain Accounts (Tables)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_DetailsOfCertainAccountsAbstract" xlink:label="hlx_DetailsOfCertainAccountsAbstract_1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfOtherCurrentAssetsTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfOtherCurrentAssetsTableTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DetailsOfCertainAccountsAbstract_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfOtherCurrentAssetsTableTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfOtherAssetsNoncurrentTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfOtherAssetsNoncurrentTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DetailsOfCertainAccountsAbstract_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfOtherAssetsNoncurrentTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfAccruedLiabilitiesTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAccruedLiabilitiesTableTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DetailsOfCertainAccountsAbstract_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAccruedLiabilitiesTableTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OtherNoncurrentLiabilitiesTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherNoncurrentLiabilitiesTableTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DetailsOfCertainAccountsAbstract_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherNoncurrentLiabilitiesTableTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureLeasesTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99930403 - Disclosure - Leases (Tables)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LeasesAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_9793e1ce-22e8-4937-95dd-c0f31cd64e61" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LeaseCostTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_LeaseCostTableTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_9793e1ce-22e8-4937-95dd-c0f31cd64e61" xlink:to="us-gaap_LeaseCostTableTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityMaturityTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityMaturityTableTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_9793e1ce-22e8-4937-95dd-c0f31cd64e61" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityMaturityTableTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_WeightedAverageRemainingLeaseTermAndDiscountRateTableTextBlock" xlink:label="hlx_WeightedAverageRemainingLeaseTermAndDiscountRateTableTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_9793e1ce-22e8-4937-95dd-c0f31cd64e61" xlink:to="hlx_WeightedAverageRemainingLeaseTermAndDiscountRateTableTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_OtherInformationRelatedToLesseeOperatingLeasesTableTextBlock" xlink:label="hlx_OtherInformationRelatedToLesseeOperatingLeasesTableTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_9793e1ce-22e8-4937-95dd-c0f31cd64e61" xlink:to="hlx_OtherInformationRelatedToLesseeOperatingLeasesTableTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureLongTermDebtTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99930503 - Disclosure - Long-Term Debt (Tables)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract_9986e977-127d-458a-a1bc-b87ebe5dfc52" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfMaturitiesOfLongTermDebtTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfMaturitiesOfLongTermDebtTableTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract_9986e977-127d-458a-a1bc-b87ebe5dfc52" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfMaturitiesOfLongTermDebtTableTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionTableTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract_9986e977-127d-458a-a1bc-b87ebe5dfc52" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionTableTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InterestIncomeAndInterestExpenseDisclosureTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestIncomeAndInterestExpenseDisclosureTableTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract_9986e977-127d-458a-a1bc-b87ebe5dfc52" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestIncomeAndInterestExpenseDisclosureTableTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99930883 - Disclosure - Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Tables)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract_1cb92f4c-38f0-4416-8f50-2a8f47a45675" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTableTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract_1cb92f4c-38f0-4416-8f50-2a8f47a45675" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTableTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureEarningsPerShareTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99930903 - Disclosure - Earnings Per Share (Tables)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_642e5932-af22-4f22-a443-ba34c3c7337f" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfEarningsPerShareBasicAndDilutedTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEarningsPerShareBasicAndDilutedTableTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_642e5932-af22-4f22-a443-ba34c3c7337f" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEarningsPerShareBasicAndDilutedTableTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfAntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_642e5932-af22-4f22-a443-ba34c3c7337f" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureEmployeeBenefitPlansTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99931003 - Disclosure - Employee Benefit Plans (Tables)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_637666417111113737" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_ScheduleOfGrantsOfShareBasedAwardsTableTextBlock" xlink:label="hlx_ScheduleOfGrantsOfShareBasedAwardsTableTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_637666417111113737" xlink:to="hlx_ScheduleOfGrantsOfShareBasedAwardsTableTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureBusinessSegmentInformationTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99931103 - Disclosure - Business Segment Information (Tables)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract_637666417111113737" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract_637666417111113737" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ReconciliationOfOperatingProfitLossFromSegmentsToConsolidatedTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ReconciliationOfOperatingProfitLossFromSegmentsToConsolidatedTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract_637666417111113737" xlink:to="us-gaap_ReconciliationOfOperatingProfitLossFromSegmentsToConsolidatedTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ReconciliationOfOtherSignificantReconcilingItemsFromSegmentsToConsolidatedTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ReconciliationOfOtherSignificantReconcilingItemsFromSegmentsToConsolidatedTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract_637666417111113737" xlink:to="us-gaap_ReconciliationOfOtherSignificantReconcilingItemsFromSegmentsToConsolidatedTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureAssetRetirementObligationsTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99931203 - Disclosure - Asset Retirement Obligations (Tables)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationDisclosureAbstract_c3a3927e-3cb1-4425-9780-3a2af97a90b5" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfAssetRetirementObligationsTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAssetRetirementObligationsTableTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationDisclosureAbstract_c3a3927e-3cb1-4425-9780-3a2af97a90b5" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAssetRetirementObligationsTableTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureStatementOfCashFlowInformationTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99931403 - Disclosure - Statement of Cash Flow Information (Tables)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract_59a4cb78-92ae-4baf-b739-534b05ae794e" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfCashFlowSupplementalDisclosuresTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCashFlowSupplementalDisclosuresTableTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract_59a4cb78-92ae-4baf-b739-534b05ae794e" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCashFlowSupplementalDisclosuresTableTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureAllowanceForCreditLossesTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99931503 - Disclosure - Allowance for Credit Losses (Tables)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CreditLossAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_CreditLossAbstract_562b28d7-f5c0-45b6-98f9-611b091683f8" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsReceivableAllowanceForCreditLossTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableAllowanceForCreditLossTableTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_CreditLossAbstract_562b28d7-f5c0-45b6-98f9-611b091683f8" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableAllowanceForCreditLossTableTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureFairValueMeasurementsTables" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99931603 - Disclosure - Fair Value Measurements (Tables)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract_637666417111123712" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfCarryingValuesAndEstimatedFairValuesOfDebtInstrumentsTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCarryingValuesAndEstimatedFairValuesOfDebtInstrumentsTableTextBlock_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract_637666417111123712" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCarryingValuesAndEstimatedFairValuesOfDebtInstrumentsTableTextBlock_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureCompanyOverviewDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940201 - Disclosure - Company Overview (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsAbstract_d9f254f7-031b-4058-84ed-2053cfd21d6f" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsAbstract_d9f254f7-031b-4058-84ed-2053cfd21d6f" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_WellInterventionMember" xlink:label="hlx_WellInterventionMember_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_639126620825506480" xlink:to="hlx_WellInterventionMember_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_639126620825506480" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NumberOfReportableSegments" xlink:label="us-gaap_NumberOfReportableSegments_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_NumberOfReportableSegments_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_NumberOfLongTermCharteredVessels" xlink:label="hlx_NumberOfLongTermCharteredVessels_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_639126620825506480" xlink:to="hlx_NumberOfLongTermCharteredVessels_639126620825506480" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureDetailsOfCertainAccountsOtherCurrentAssetsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940301 - Disclosure - Details of Certain Accounts - Other Current Assets (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_DetailsOfCertainAccountsAbstract" xlink:label="hlx_DetailsOfCertainAccountsAbstract_3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PrepaidExpenseCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_PrepaidExpenseCurrent_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DetailsOfCertainAccountsAbstract_3" xlink:to="us-gaap_PrepaidExpenseCurrent_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxesReceivable" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxesReceivable_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DetailsOfCertainAccountsAbstract_3" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxesReceivable_639126620825506480" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerAssetNetCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerAssetNetCurrent_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DetailsOfCertainAccountsAbstract_3" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerAssetNetCurrent_639126620825506480" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CapitalizedContractCostNetCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_CapitalizedContractCostNetCurrent_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DetailsOfCertainAccountsAbstract_3" xlink:to="us-gaap_CapitalizedContractCostNetCurrent_639126620825506480" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OtherAssetsMiscellaneousCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherAssetsMiscellaneousCurrent_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DetailsOfCertainAccountsAbstract_3" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherAssetsMiscellaneousCurrent_639126620825506480" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OtherAssetsCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherAssetsCurrent_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DetailsOfCertainAccountsAbstract_3" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherAssetsCurrent_639126620825506480" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureDetailsOfCertainAccountsOtherAssetsNetDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940302 - Disclosure - Details of Certain Accounts - Other Assets, Net (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_DetailsOfCertainAccountsAbstract" xlink:label="hlx_DetailsOfCertainAccountsAbstract_4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PrepaidExpenseNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_PrepaidExpenseNoncurrent_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DetailsOfCertainAccountsAbstract_4" xlink:to="us-gaap_PrepaidExpenseNoncurrent_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CapitalizedContractCostNetNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_CapitalizedContractCostNetNoncurrent_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DetailsOfCertainAccountsAbstract_4" xlink:to="us-gaap_CapitalizedContractCostNetNoncurrent_639126620825506480" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NontradeReceivablesNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_NontradeReceivablesNoncurrent_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DetailsOfCertainAccountsAbstract_4" xlink:to="us-gaap_NontradeReceivablesNoncurrent_639126620825506480" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsNet_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DetailsOfCertainAccountsAbstract_4" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsNet_639126620825506480" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OtherAssetsMiscellaneousNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherAssetsMiscellaneousNoncurrent_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DetailsOfCertainAccountsAbstract_4" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherAssetsMiscellaneousNoncurrent_639126620825506480" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OtherAssetsNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherAssetsNoncurrent_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DetailsOfCertainAccountsAbstract_4" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherAssetsNoncurrent_639126620825506480" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureDetailsOfCertainAccountsAccruedLiabilitiesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940303 - Disclosure - Details of Certain Accounts - Accrued Liabilities (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_DetailsOfCertainAccountsAbstract" xlink:label="hlx_DetailsOfCertainAccountsAbstract_5" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DetailsOfCertainAccountsAbstract_5" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeRelatedLiabilitiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeRelatedLiabilitiesCurrent_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeRelatedLiabilitiesCurrent_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InterestPayableCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestPayableCurrent_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestPayableCurrent_639126620825506480" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityCurrent_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityCurrent_639126620825506480" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OtherAccruedLiabilitiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherAccruedLiabilitiesCurrent_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherAccruedLiabilitiesCurrent_639126620825506480" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrent_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrentAbstract_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrent_639126620825506480" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureDetailsOfCertainAccountsOtherNonCurrentLiabilitiesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940304 - Disclosure - Details of Certain Accounts - Other Non-Current Liabilities (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_DetailsOfCertainAccountsAbstract" xlink:label="hlx_DetailsOfCertainAccountsAbstract_6" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrentAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrentAbstract_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_DetailsOfCertainAccountsAbstract_6" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrentAbstract_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationsNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationsNoncurrent_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrentAbstract_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationsNoncurrent_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OtherAccruedLiabilitiesNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherAccruedLiabilitiesNoncurrent_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrentAbstract_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherAccruedLiabilitiesNoncurrent_639126620825506480" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrent_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrentAbstract_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrent_639126620825506480" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureLeasesComponentsOfLeaseCostDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940401 - Disclosure - Leases - Components Of Lease Cost (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LeasesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LeasesAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseCost" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseCost_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LeasesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseCost_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_VariableLeaseCost" xlink:label="us-gaap_VariableLeaseCost_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LeasesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_VariableLeaseCost_639126620825506480" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ShortTermLeaseCost" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShortTermLeaseCost_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LeasesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShortTermLeaseCost_639126620825506480" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SubleaseIncome" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubleaseIncome_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LeasesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubleaseIncome_639126620825506480" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LeaseCost" xlink:label="us-gaap_LeaseCost_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LeasesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LeaseCost_639126620825506480" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureLeasesMaturitiesOfOperatingLeaseLiabilitiesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940402 - Disclosure - Leases - Maturities Of Operating Lease Liabilities (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LeasesAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_c24ed557-8e51-4d06-91ca-13eebdd868ff" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_c24ed557-8e51-4d06-91ca-13eebdd868ff" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_VesselsMember" xlink:label="hlx_VesselsMember_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_639126620825506480" xlink:to="hlx_VesselsMember_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_FacilitiesAndEquipmentMember" xlink:label="hlx_FacilitiesAndEquipmentMember_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_639126620825506480" xlink:to="hlx_FacilitiesAndEquipmentMember_639126620825506480" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipmentTable_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems_639126620825506480" order="2" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueRollingMaturityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueRollingMaturityAbstract_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentLineItems_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueRollingMaturityAbstract_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueNextRollingTwelveMonths" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueNextRollingTwelveMonths_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueRollingMaturityAbstract_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueNextRollingTwelveMonths_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueInRollingYearTwo" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueInRollingYearTwo_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueRollingMaturityAbstract_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueInRollingYearTwo_639126620825506480" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueInRollingYearThree" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueInRollingYearThree_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueRollingMaturityAbstract_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueInRollingYearThree_639126620825506480" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueInRollingYearFour" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueInRollingYearFour_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueRollingMaturityAbstract_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueInRollingYearFour_639126620825506480" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueInRollingYearFive" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueInRollingYearFive_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueRollingMaturityAbstract_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueInRollingYearFive_639126620825506480" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueAfterRollingYearFive" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueAfterRollingYearFive_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueRollingMaturityAbstract_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDueAfterRollingYearFive_639126620825506480" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDue" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDue_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueRollingMaturityAbstract_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityPaymentsDue_639126620825506480" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityUndiscountedExcessAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityUndiscountedExcessAmount_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueRollingMaturityAbstract_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_LesseeOperatingLeaseLiabilityUndiscountedExcessAmount_639126620825506480" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueRollingMaturityAbstract_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiability_639126620825506480" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityCurrent_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueRollingMaturityAbstract_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityCurrent_639126620825506480" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilitiesPaymentsDueRollingMaturityAbstract_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent_639126620825506480" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureLeasesWeightedAverageRemainingLeaseTermAndDiscountRateDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940403 - Disclosure - Leases - Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term And Discount Rate (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LeasesAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_32e84c0a-ae42-4796-b038-32d45395e815" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseWeightedAverageRemainingLeaseTerm1" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseWeightedAverageRemainingLeaseTerm1_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_32e84c0a-ae42-4796-b038-32d45395e815" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseWeightedAverageRemainingLeaseTerm1_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeaseWeightedAverageDiscountRatePercent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseWeightedAverageDiscountRatePercent_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_32e84c0a-ae42-4796-b038-32d45395e815" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeaseWeightedAverageDiscountRatePercent_639126620825506480" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureLeasesOtherInformationRelatedToOperatingLeasesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940404 - Disclosure - Leases - Other Information Related To Operating Leases (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LeasesAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_2631a658-36b3-4263-a8a7-e74721334e6b" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeasePayments" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeasePayments_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_2631a658-36b3-4263-a8a7-e74721334e6b" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeasePayments_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_RightOfUseAssetObtainedInExchangeForOperatingLeaseLiability" xlink:label="us-gaap_RightOfUseAssetObtainedInExchangeForOperatingLeaseLiability_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_LeasesAbstract_2631a658-36b3-4263-a8a7-e74721334e6b" xlink:to="us-gaap_RightOfUseAssetObtainedInExchangeForOperatingLeaseLiability_639126620825506480" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureLongTermDebtMaturitiesOfLongTermDebtDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940501 - Disclosure - Long-Term Debt - Maturities Of Long-Term Debt (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract_17494ab8-8f7d-4a06-b43b-36ca6a99d39f" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract_17494ab8-8f7d-4a06-b43b-36ca6a99d39f" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_MARADDebtMaturingFebruary2027Member" xlink:label="hlx_MARADDebtMaturingFebruary2027Member_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_639126620825506480" xlink:to="hlx_MARADDebtMaturingFebruary2027Member_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SeniorNotesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeniorNotesMember_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeniorNotesMember_639126620825506480" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825506480" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInNextRollingTwelveMonths" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInNextRollingTwelveMonths_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInNextRollingTwelveMonths_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInRollingYearThree" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInRollingYearThree_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInRollingYearThree_639126620825506480" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmount_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmount_639126620825506480" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentUnamortizedDiscount" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentUnamortizedDiscount_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentUnamortizedDiscount_639126620825506480" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredFinanceCostsNoncurrentNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredFinanceCostsNoncurrentNet_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredFinanceCostsNoncurrentNet_639126620825506480" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebt_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebt_639126620825506480" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent_639126620825506480" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent_639126620825506480" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureLongTermDebtCreditAgreementDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940502 - Disclosure - Long-Term Debt - Credit Agreement (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract_bf339bdb-09a9-4391-a352-09638cbd793f" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract_bf339bdb-09a9-4391-a352-09638cbd793f" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_AssetBasedCreditAgreementMaturingAugust2029Member" xlink:label="hlx_AssetBasedCreditAgreementMaturingAugust2029Member_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_639126620825506480" xlink:to="hlx_AssetBasedCreditAgreementMaturingAugust2029Member_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_StatementGeographicalAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_639126620825506480" xlink:to="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_639126620825506480" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain" xlink:label="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_StatementGeographicalAxis_639126620825506480" xlink:to="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2025/country-2025.xsd#country_US" xlink:label="country_US_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_639126620825506480" xlink:to="country_US_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.sec.gov/country/2025/country-2025.xsd#country_GB" xlink:label="country_GB_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_SegmentGeographicalDomain_639126620825506480" xlink:to="country_GB_639126620825506480" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_VariableRateAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis_639126620825506480" order="3" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SecuredOvernightFinancingRateSofrMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SecuredOvernightFinancingRateSofrMember_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_SecuredOvernightFinancingRateSofrMember_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_BaseRateMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_BaseRateMember_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_BaseRateMember_639126620825506480" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_SterlingOvernightInterbankAverageRateSoniaMember" xlink:label="hlx_SterlingOvernightInterbankAverageRateSoniaMember_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain_639126620825506480" xlink:to="hlx_SterlingOvernightInterbankAverageRateSoniaMember_639126620825506480" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_639126620825506480" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis_639126620825506480" order="4" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis_639126620825506480" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_639126620825506480" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_639126620825506480" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember_639126620825506480" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementScenarioAxis_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_639126620825506480" xlink:to="srt_StatementScenarioAxis_639126620825506480" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_StatementScenarioAxis_639126620825506480" xlink:to="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_ProFormaMember" xlink:label="srt_ProFormaMember_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_639126620825506480" xlink:to="srt_ProFormaMember_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825506480" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity_639126620825506480" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate_639126620825506480" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_LineOfCreditFacilitySpringingMaturityPeriod" xlink:label="hlx_LineOfCreditFacilitySpringingMaturityPeriod_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825506480" xlink:to="hlx_LineOfCreditFacilitySpringingMaturityPeriod_639126620825506480" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_LineOfCreditFacilitySpringingMaturityPrincipalAmountThreshold" xlink:label="hlx_LineOfCreditFacilitySpringingMaturityPrincipalAmountThreshold_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825506480" xlink:to="hlx_LineOfCreditFacilitySpringingMaturityPrincipalAmountThreshold_639126620825506480" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_MaximumCommitmentIncrease" xlink:label="hlx_MaximumCommitmentIncrease_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825506480" xlink:to="hlx_MaximumCommitmentIncrease_639126620825506480" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_LineOfCreditFacilityLettersOfCreditSublimit" xlink:label="hlx_LineOfCreditFacilityLettersOfCreditSublimit_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825506480" xlink:to="hlx_LineOfCreditFacilityLettersOfCreditSublimit_639126620825506480" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCredit" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCredit_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCredit_639126620825506480" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityRemainingBorrowingCapacity" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityRemainingBorrowingCapacity_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityRemainingBorrowingCapacity_639126620825506480" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_LineOfCreditFacilityRemainingBorrowingCapacityPercentage" xlink:label="hlx_LineOfCreditFacilityRemainingBorrowingCapacityPercentage_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825506480" xlink:to="hlx_LineOfCreditFacilityRemainingBorrowingCapacityPercentage_639126620825506480" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_LineOfCreditFacilityPermittedDebtForDeferredPurchasePriceOfPropertyAndEquipment" xlink:label="hlx_LineOfCreditFacilityPermittedDebtForDeferredPurchasePriceOfPropertyAndEquipment_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825506480" xlink:to="hlx_LineOfCreditFacilityPermittedDebtForDeferredPurchasePriceOfPropertyAndEquipment_639126620825506480" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_LineOfCreditFacilityThresholdForBorrowingBaseFixedCoverageRatio" xlink:label="hlx_LineOfCreditFacilityThresholdForBorrowingBaseFixedCoverageRatio_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825506480" xlink:to="hlx_LineOfCreditFacilityThresholdForBorrowingBaseFixedCoverageRatio_639126620825506480" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LettersOfCreditOutstandingAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_LettersOfCreditOutstandingAmount_639126620825506480" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_LettersOfCreditOutstandingAmount_639126620825506480" order="12" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCollateralAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCollateralAmount_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCollateralAmount_639126620825663639" order="13" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableRate1" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableRate1_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableRate1_639126620825663639" order="14" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_DebtInstrumentAdjustmentOnVariableRate" xlink:label="hlx_DebtInstrumentAdjustmentOnVariableRate_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825506480" xlink:to="hlx_DebtInstrumentAdjustmentOnVariableRate_639126620825663639" order="15" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage_639126620825663639" order="16" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityUnusedCapacityCommitmentFeePercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityUnusedCapacityCommitmentFeePercentage_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityUnusedCapacityCommitmentFeePercentage_639126620825663639" order="17" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_FixedChargeCoverageRatio" xlink:label="hlx_FixedChargeCoverageRatio_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825506480" xlink:to="hlx_FixedChargeCoverageRatio_639126620825663639" order="18" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFrequencyOfPeriodicPayment" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFrequencyOfPeriodicPayment_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825506480" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFrequencyOfPeriodicPayment_639126620825663639" order="19" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureLongTermDebtMaradDebtDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940503 - Disclosure - Long-Term Debt - MARAD Debt (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract_bedbfd66-eaeb-4762-8fd8-68ef8a2352e0" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract_bedbfd66-eaeb-4762-8fd8-68ef8a2352e0" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_MARADDebtMaturingFebruary2027Member" xlink:label="hlx_MARADDebtMaturingFebruary2027Member_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_639126620825663639" xlink:to="hlx_MARADDebtMaturingFebruary2027Member_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825663639" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsLiquidationProceedsPercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsLiquidationProceedsPercentage_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_GuaranteeObligationsLiquidationProceedsPercentage_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFrequencyOfPeriodicPayment" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFrequencyOfPeriodicPayment_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFrequencyOfPeriodicPayment_639126620825663639" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate_639126620825663639" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDateDescription" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDateDescription_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDateDescription_639126620825663639" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage_639126620825663639" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureLongTermDebt2029NotesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940504 - Disclosure - Long-Term Debt - 2029 Notes (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract_1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SeniorNotesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeniorNotesMember_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeniorNotesMember_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_639126620825663639" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis_639126620825663639" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis_639126620825663639" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_639126620825663639" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementScenarioAxis_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_639126620825663639" xlink:to="srt_StatementScenarioAxis_639126620825663639" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_StatementScenarioAxis_639126620825663639" xlink:to="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_MeasurementInputChangeInControlEventMember" xlink:label="hlx_MeasurementInputChangeInControlEventMember_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_639126620825663639" xlink:to="hlx_MeasurementInputChangeInControlEventMember_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodAxis_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodAxis_639126620825663639" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodDomain_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodAxis_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodDomain_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodOneMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodOneMember_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodDomain_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodOneMember_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodTwoMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodTwoMember_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodDomain_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodTwoMember_639126620825663639" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodThreeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodThreeMember_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodDomain_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPeriodThreeMember_639126620825663639" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentTable_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825663639" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmount_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmount_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage_639126620825663639" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFrequencyOfPeriodicPayment" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFrequencyOfPeriodicPayment_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFrequencyOfPeriodicPayment_639126620825663639" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate_639126620825663639" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPricePercentageOfPrincipalAmountRedeemed" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPricePercentageOfPrincipalAmountRedeemed_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPricePercentageOfPrincipalAmountRedeemed_639126620825663639" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPricePercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPricePercentage_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentRedemptionPricePercentage_639126620825663639" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureLongTermDebtComponentsOfNetInterestExpenseDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940505 - Disclosure - Long-Term Debt - Components Of Net Interest Expense (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract_3459e49f-cce5-4974-aaa6-5b9ae2d7c850" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InterestExpenseNonoperating" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestExpenseNonoperating_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract_3459e49f-cce5-4974-aaa6-5b9ae2d7c850" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestExpenseNonoperating_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InterestIncomeOther" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestIncomeOther_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract_3459e49f-cce5-4974-aaa6-5b9ae2d7c850" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestIncomeOther_639126620825663639" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InterestIncomeExpenseNonoperatingNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestIncomeExpenseNonoperatingNet_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_DebtDisclosureAbstract_3459e49f-cce5-4974-aaa6-5b9ae2d7c850" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestIncomeExpenseNonoperatingNet_639126620825663639" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedTotalLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureIncomeTaxesEffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940601 - Disclosure - Income Taxes - Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureAbstract_e43e5098-23c2-486d-bf01-806c18347647" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefitContinuingOperationsIncomeTaxReconciliationAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefitContinuingOperationsIncomeTaxReconciliationAbstract_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureAbstract_e43e5098-23c2-486d-bf01-806c18347647" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefitContinuingOperationsIncomeTaxReconciliationAbstract_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefitContinuingOperationsIncomeTaxReconciliationAbstract_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateContinuingOperationsTaxRateReconciliationAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateContinuingOperationsTaxRateReconciliationAbstract_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureAbstract_e43e5098-23c2-486d-bf01-806c18347647" xlink:to="us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateContinuingOperationsTaxRateReconciliationAbstract_639126620825663639" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateContinuingOperations" xlink:label="us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateContinuingOperations_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateContinuingOperationsTaxRateReconciliationAbstract_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateContinuingOperations_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureShareRepurchaseProgramsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940701 - Disclosure - Share Repurchase Programs (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_EquityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityAbstract_637666417111462804" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfTreasuryStockTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfTreasuryStockTable_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityAbstract_637666417111462804" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfTreasuryStockTable_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis" xlink:label="srt_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfTreasuryStockTable_639126620825663639" xlink:to="srt_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain" xlink:label="srt_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis_639126620825663639" xlink:to="srt_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_StockPurchaseProgramTwoMember" xlink:label="hlx_StockPurchaseProgramTwoMember_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain_639126620825663639" xlink:to="hlx_StockPurchaseProgramTwoMember_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_EquityClassOfTreasuryStockLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityClassOfTreasuryStockLineItems_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfTreasuryStockTable_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityClassOfTreasuryStockLineItems_639126620825663639" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_StockRepurchaseProgramAuthorizedAmount1" xlink:label="srt_StockRepurchaseProgramAuthorizedAmount1_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityClassOfTreasuryStockLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="srt_StockRepurchaseProgramAuthorizedAmount1_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StockRepurchaseProgramRemainingAuthorizedRepurchaseAmount1" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockRepurchaseProgramRemainingAuthorizedRepurchaseAmount1_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityClassOfTreasuryStockLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockRepurchaseProgramRemainingAuthorizedRepurchaseAmount1_639126620825663639" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersDisaggregationOfRevenueDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940801 - Disclosure - Revenue from Contracts with Customers - Disaggregation Of Revenue (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract_1b7e5fdc-2223-49e4-998f-69e3f042ada9" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract_1b7e5fdc-2223-49e4-998f-69e3f042ada9" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:label="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_639126620825663639" xlink:to="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ProductOrServiceAxis_639126620825663639" xlink:to="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_ProductionMaximizationMember" xlink:label="hlx_ProductionMaximizationMember_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_639126620825663639" xlink:to="hlx_ProductionMaximizationMember_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_DecommissioningMember" xlink:label="hlx_DecommissioningMember_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_639126620825663639" xlink:to="hlx_DecommissioningMember_639126620825663639" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_RenewablesMember" xlink:label="hlx_RenewablesMember_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_639126620825663639" xlink:to="hlx_RenewablesMember_639126620825663639" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ServiceOtherMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ServiceOtherMember_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ProductsAndServicesDomain_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_ServiceOtherMember_639126620825663639" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_639126620825663639" order="2" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_WellInterventionMember" xlink:label="hlx_WellInterventionMember_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_639126620825663639" xlink:to="hlx_WellInterventionMember_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_RoboticsMember" xlink:label="hlx_RoboticsMember_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_639126620825663639" xlink:to="hlx_RoboticsMember_639126620825663639" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_ShallowWaterAbandonmentMember" xlink:label="hlx_ShallowWaterAbandonmentMember_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_639126620825663639" xlink:to="hlx_ShallowWaterAbandonmentMember_639126620825663639" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_ProductionFacilitiesMember" xlink:label="hlx_ProductionFacilitiesMember_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_639126620825663639" xlink:to="hlx_ProductionFacilitiesMember_639126620825663639" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_639126620825663639" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_639126620825663639" order="3" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_639126620825663639" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_IntersegmentEliminationMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_IntersegmentEliminationMember_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_IntersegmentEliminationMember_639126620825663639" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueTable_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems_639126620825663639" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisaggregationOfRevenueLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureRevenueFromContractsWithCustomersNarrativeDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940802 - Disclosure - Revenue From Contracts With Customers - Narrative (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract_637666417111462804" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionTable_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerAbstract_637666417111462804" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionTable_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionStartDateAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionStartDateAxis_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionTable_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionStartDateAxis_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionLineItems_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionTable_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionLineItems_639126620825663639" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerAssetNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerAssetNet_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerAssetNet_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerAssetCreditLossExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerAssetCreditLossExpense_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerAssetCreditLossExpense_639126620825663639" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiability" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiability_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiability_639126620825663639" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityRevenueRecognized" xlink:label="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityRevenueRecognized_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_ContractWithCustomerLiabilityRevenueRecognized_639126620825663639" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligation" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligation_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligation_639126620825663639" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionPeriod1" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionPeriod1_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionPeriod1_639126620825663639" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CapitalizedContractCostNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_CapitalizedContractCostNet_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_CapitalizedContractCostNet_639126620825663639" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CapitalizedContractCostAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_CapitalizedContractCostAmortization_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_CapitalizedContractCostAmortization_639126620825663639" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CapitalizedContractCostImpairmentLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_CapitalizedContractCostImpairmentLoss_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenueRemainingPerformanceObligationExpectedTimingOfSatisfactionLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_CapitalizedContractCostImpairmentLoss_639126620825663639" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureEarningsPerShareComputationsOfBasicAndDilutedEpsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940901 - Disclosure - Earnings Per Share - Computations Of Basic And Diluted EPS (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_fda4392f-844b-4d64-91ae-f4cf93da3ba0" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicAbstract_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_fda4392f-844b-4d64-91ae-f4cf93da3ba0" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicAbstract_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicAbstract_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_UndistributedEarningsLossAllocatedToParticipatingSecuritiesBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_UndistributedEarningsLossAllocatedToParticipatingSecuritiesBasic_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicAbstract_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_UndistributedEarningsLossAllocatedToParticipatingSecuritiesBasic_639126620825663639" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedTerseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAvailableToCommonStockholdersBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAvailableToCommonStockholdersBasic_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicAbstract_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAvailableToCommonStockholdersBasic_639126620825663639" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicAbstract_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic_639126620825663639" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicAbstract_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic_639126620825663639" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedAbstract_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_fda4392f-844b-4d64-91ae-f4cf93da3ba0" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedAbstract_639126620825663639" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAvailableToCommonStockholdersBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAvailableToCommonStockholdersBasic_6391266208256636391" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedAbstract_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAvailableToCommonStockholdersBasic_6391266208256636391" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic_6391266208256636391" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedAbstract_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic_6391266208256636391" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberDilutedSharesOutstandingAdjustmentAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberDilutedSharesOutstandingAdjustmentAbstract_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedAbstract_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberDilutedSharesOutstandingAdjustmentAbstract_639126620825663639" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToShareBasedPaymentArrangements" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToShareBasedPaymentArrangements_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberDilutedSharesOutstandingAdjustmentAbstract_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToShareBasedPaymentArrangements_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAvailableToCommonStockholdersDiluted" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAvailableToCommonStockholdersDiluted_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberDilutedSharesOutstandingAdjustmentAbstract_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAvailableToCommonStockholdersDiluted_639126620825663639" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberDilutedSharesOutstandingAdjustmentAbstract_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding_639126620825663639" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberDilutedSharesOutstandingAdjustmentAbstract_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted_639126620825663639" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureEarningsPerShareSharesIncludedInDilutedCalculationsAssumingEarningsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99940902 - Disclosure - Earnings Per Share - Shares Included in Diluted Calculations Assuming Earnings (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_637532970441514773" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfAntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareTable_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract_637532970441514773" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareTable_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareTable_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StockCompensationPlanMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockCompensationPlanMember_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockCompensationPlanMember_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareLineItems_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareTable_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareLineItems_639126620825663639" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToParticipatingNonvestedSharesWithNonForfeitableDividendRights" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToParticipatingNonvestedSharesWithNonForfeitableDividendRights_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToParticipatingNonvestedSharesWithNonForfeitableDividendRights_639126620825663639" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingIncludingIncrementalSharesDiluted" xlink:label="hlx_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingIncludingIncrementalSharesDiluted_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="hlx_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingIncludingIncrementalSharesDiluted_639126620825663639" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="3" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureEmployeeBenefitPlansNarrativeDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941001 - Disclosure - Employee Benefit Plans - Narrative (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_d593c65e-89e8-4130-836c-b7b0b5f39e2f" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_d593c65e-89e8-4130-836c-b7b0b5f39e2f" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_IncentivePlan2005Member" xlink:label="hlx_IncentivePlan2005Member_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_639126620825663639" xlink:to="hlx_IncentivePlan2005Member_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember_639126620825663639" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember_639126620825663639" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember_639126620825663639" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_FixedValueCashAwardsMember" xlink:label="hlx_FixedValueCashAwardsMember_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_639126620825663639" xlink:to="hlx_FixedValueCashAwardsMember_639126620825663639" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeStockMember_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeStockMember_639126620825663639" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="srt_StatementScenarioAxis_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_639126620825663639" xlink:to="srt_StatementScenarioAxis_639126620825663639" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_StatementScenarioAxis_639126620825663639" xlink:to="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioPlanMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioPlanMember_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioPlanMember_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_RangeAxis" xlink:label="srt_RangeAxis_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_639126620825663639" xlink:to="srt_RangeAxis_639126620825663639" order="3" use="optional" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_RangeMember" xlink:label="srt_RangeMember_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeAxis_639126620825663639" xlink:to="srt_RangeMember_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_MaximumMember" xlink:label="srt_MaximumMember_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_639126620825663639" xlink:to="srt_MaximumMember_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_MinimumMember" xlink:label="srt_MinimumMember_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_RangeMember_639126620825663639" xlink:to="srt_MinimumMember_639126620825663639" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis_639126620825663639" order="4" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeAxis_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_QualifiedPlanMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_QualifiedPlanMember_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_RetirementPlanTypeDomain_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_QualifiedPlanMember_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_639126620825663639" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_NumberOfActiveIncentivePlans" xlink:label="hlx_NumberOfActiveIncentivePlans_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="hlx_NumberOfActiveIncentivePlans_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAvailableForGrant" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAvailableForGrant_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAvailableForGrant_639126620825663639" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardComponentsOfEquityAwardsGranted" xlink:label="hlx_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardComponentsOfEquityAwardsGranted_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="hlx_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardComponentsOfEquityAwardsGranted_639126620825663639" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingRightsPercentageBasedOnServiceAndMarketConditions" xlink:label="hlx_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingRightsPercentageBasedOnServiceAndMarketConditions_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="hlx_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingRightsPercentageBasedOnServiceAndMarketConditions_639126620825663639" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingRightsPercentageBasedOnServiceAndPerformanceConditions" xlink:label="hlx_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingRightsPercentageBasedOnServiceAndPerformanceConditions_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="hlx_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingRightsPercentageBasedOnServiceAndPerformanceConditions_639126620825663639" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardCompensationCost1" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardCompensationCost1_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardCompensationCost1_639126620825663639" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="2" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedTerm1" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedTerm1_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedTerm1_639126620825663639" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod_639126620825663639" order="8" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingRightsPercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingRightsPercentage_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingRightsPercentage_639126620825663639" order="9" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsShareBasedLiabilitiesPaid" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsShareBasedLiabilitiesPaid_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsShareBasedLiabilitiesPaid_639126620825663639" order="10" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredCompensationArrangementWithIndividualCashAwardGrantedAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredCompensationArrangementWithIndividualCashAwardGrantedAmount_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredCompensationArrangementWithIndividualCashAwardGrantedAmount_639126620825663639" order="11" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriod1" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriod1_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriod1_639126620825663639" order="12" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredCompensationArrangementWithIndividualCompensationExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredCompensationArrangementWithIndividualCompensationExpense_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredCompensationArrangementWithIndividualCompensationExpense_639126620825663639" order="13" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanCostRecognized" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanCostRecognized_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanCostRecognized_639126620825663639" order="14" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardMaximumNumberOfSharesPerEmployee" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardMaximumNumberOfSharesPerEmployee_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardMaximumNumberOfSharesPerEmployee_639126620825663639" order="15" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureEmployeeBenefitPlansGrantsOfShareBasedAwardsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941002 - Disclosure - Employee Benefit Plans - Grants of Share-based Awards (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_3" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsSharebasedPaymentsAbstract_3" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_PerformanceSharesMember_639126620825663639" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_GranteeStatusAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_GranteeStatusAxis_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_GranteeStatusAxis_639126620825663639" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_GranteeStatusDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_GranteeStatusDomain_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_GranteeStatusAxis_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_GranteeStatusDomain_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_ExecutiveOfficerMember" xlink:label="srt_ExecutiveOfficerMember_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_GranteeStatusDomain_639126620825663639" xlink:to="srt_ExecutiveOfficerMember_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTable_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_639126620825663639" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardGrantDate" xlink:label="hlx_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardGrantDate_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="hlx_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardGrantDate_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod_639126620825663639" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue_639126620825663639" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingRightsPercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingRightsPercentage_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingRightsPercentage_639126620825663639" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriod1" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriod1_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriod1_639126620825663639" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardVestingDate" xlink:label="hlx_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardVestingDate_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="hlx_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardVestingDate_639126620825663639" order="6" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredCompensationArrangementWithIndividualCashAwardGrantedAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredCompensationArrangementWithIndividualCashAwardGrantedAmount_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardLineItems_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredCompensationArrangementWithIndividualCashAwardGrantedAmount_639126620825663639" order="7" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureBusinessSegmentInformationNarrativeDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941101 - Disclosure - Business Segment Information - Narrative (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract_f7b87ae0-4183-4ba5-9f22-c858eefaf9e4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_NumberOfReportableSegments" xlink:label="us-gaap_NumberOfReportableSegments_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract_f7b87ae0-4183-4ba5-9f22-c858eefaf9e4" xlink:to="us-gaap_NumberOfReportableSegments_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureBusinessSegmentInformationMeasureOfSegmentProfitOrLossDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941102 - Disclosure - Business Segment Information - Measure of segment profit or loss (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_639126620825663639" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_639126620825663639" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ReportableSegmentAggregationBeforeOtherOperatingSegmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ReportableSegmentAggregationBeforeOtherOperatingSegmentMember_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_ReportableSegmentAggregationBeforeOtherOperatingSegmentMember_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_WellInterventionMember" xlink:label="hlx_WellInterventionMember_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReportableSegmentAggregationBeforeOtherOperatingSegmentMember_639126620825819527" xlink:to="hlx_WellInterventionMember_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_RoboticsMember" xlink:label="hlx_RoboticsMember_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReportableSegmentAggregationBeforeOtherOperatingSegmentMember_639126620825819527" xlink:to="hlx_RoboticsMember_639126620825819527" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_ShallowWaterAbandonmentMember" xlink:label="hlx_ShallowWaterAbandonmentMember_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReportableSegmentAggregationBeforeOtherOperatingSegmentMember_639126620825819527" xlink:to="hlx_ShallowWaterAbandonmentMember_639126620825819527" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_ProductionFacilitiesMember" xlink:label="hlx_ProductionFacilitiesMember_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReportableSegmentAggregationBeforeOtherOperatingSegmentMember_639126620825819527" xlink:to="hlx_ProductionFacilitiesMember_639126620825819527" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_639126620825663639" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_639126620825819527" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_639126620825819527" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_IntersegmentEliminationMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_IntersegmentEliminationMember_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_IntersegmentEliminationMember_639126620825819527" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_639126620825663639" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_639126620825819527" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLossAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLossAbstract_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLossAbstract_639126620825819527" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CostOfRevenue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CostOfRevenue_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLossAbstract_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_CostOfRevenue_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingCostsAndExpenses" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingCostsAndExpenses_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLossAbstract_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingCostsAndExpenses_639126620825819527" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLossAbstract_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense_639126620825819527" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLossAbstract_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss_639126620825819527" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureBusinessSegmentInformationReconciliationOfSegmentProfitDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941103 - Disclosure - Business Segment Information - Reconciliation of segment profit (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract_1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_639126620825819527" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_639126620825819527" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CorporateNonSegmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CorporateNonSegmentMember_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_CorporateNonSegmentMember_639126620825819527" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_639126620825819527" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InterestIncomeExpenseNonoperatingNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestIncomeExpenseNonoperatingNet_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestIncomeExpenseNonoperatingNet_639126620825819527" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense_639126620825819527" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2009/role/negatedLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpenseAndRoyaltyIncome" xlink:label="hlx_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpenseAndRoyaltyIncome_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_639126620825819527" xlink:to="hlx_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpenseAndRoyaltyIncome_639126620825819527" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest_639126620825819527" order="5" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/totalLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureBusinessSegmentInformationItemsProvidedToCodmDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941104 - Disclosure - Business Segment Information - Items Provided to CODM (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract_637666417111971400" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingAbstract_637666417111971400" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_WellInterventionMember" xlink:label="hlx_WellInterventionMember_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_639126620825819527" xlink:to="hlx_WellInterventionMember_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_RoboticsMember" xlink:label="hlx_RoboticsMember_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_639126620825819527" xlink:to="hlx_RoboticsMember_639126620825819527" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_ShallowWaterAbandonmentMember" xlink:label="hlx_ShallowWaterAbandonmentMember_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_639126620825819527" xlink:to="hlx_ShallowWaterAbandonmentMember_639126620825819527" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_ProductionFacilitiesMember" xlink:label="hlx_ProductionFacilitiesMember_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain_639126620825819527" xlink:to="hlx_ProductionFacilitiesMember_639126620825819527" order="4" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_639126620825819527" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_639126620825819527" order="2" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:label="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsAxis_639126620825819527" xlink:to="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CorporateNonSegmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CorporateNonSegmentMember_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_ConsolidationItemsDomain_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_CorporateNonSegmentMember_639126620825819527" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTable_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_639126620825819527" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentExpenditureAdditionToLongLivedAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentExpenditureAdditionToLongLivedAssets_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentExpenditureAdditionToLongLivedAssets_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationLineItems_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization_639126620825819527" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureAssetRetirementObligationsChangesInArosDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941201 - Disclosure - Asset Retirement Obligations - Changes in AROs (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationDisclosureAbstract_23ebe11b-4749-4a67-b8e3-8eb316c31436" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationRollForwardAnalysisRollForward" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationRollForwardAnalysisRollForward_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationDisclosureAbstract_23ebe11b-4749-4a67-b8e3-8eb316c31436" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationRollForwardAnalysisRollForward_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligation" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligation_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationRollForwardAnalysisRollForward_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligation_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationAccretionExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationAccretionExpense_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationRollForwardAnalysisRollForward_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationAccretionExpense_639126620825819527" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligation" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligation_6391266208258195271" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligationRollForwardAnalysisRollForward_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetRetirementObligation_6391266208258195271" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureCommitmentsAndContingenciesAndOtherMattersDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941301 - Disclosure - Commitments and Contingencies and Other Matters (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract_e63dfef0-96bb-47b3-bcc2-2627661387fd" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_CommitmentsAndContingenciesTable" xlink:label="hlx_CommitmentsAndContingenciesTable_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureAbstract_e63dfef0-96bb-47b3-bcc2-2627661387fd" xlink:to="hlx_CommitmentsAndContingenciesTable_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_CommitmentsAndContingenciesTable_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_PatriotMember" xlink:label="hlx_PatriotMember_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain_639126620825819527" xlink:to="hlx_PatriotMember_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_CommitmentsAndContingenciesLineItems" xlink:label="hlx_CommitmentsAndContingenciesLineItems_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_CommitmentsAndContingenciesTable_639126620825819527" xlink:to="hlx_CommitmentsAndContingenciesLineItems_639126620825819527" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_TermOfCharterAgreement" xlink:label="hlx_TermOfCharterAgreement_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="hlx_CommitmentsAndContingenciesLineItems_639126620825819527" xlink:to="hlx_TermOfCharterAgreement_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureStatementOfCashFlowInformationSupplementalCashFlowInformationDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941401 - Disclosure - Statement of Cash Flow Information - Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract_d2a1be26-ba3a-4542-b2cc-0042e00d6f28" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_InterestPaidNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestPaidNet_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract_d2a1be26-ba3a-4542-b2cc-0042e00d6f28" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestPaidNet_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxesPaidNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxesPaidNet_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract_d2a1be26-ba3a-4542-b2cc-0042e00d6f28" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxesPaidNet_639126620825819527" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationRelatedText" xlink:label="us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationRelatedText_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract_d2a1be26-ba3a-4542-b2cc-0042e00d6f28" xlink:to="us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationRelatedText_639126620825819527" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromIncomeTaxRefunds" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIncomeTaxRefunds_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationRelatedText_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIncomeTaxRefunds_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureStatementOfCashFlowInformationNarrativeDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941402 - Disclosure - Statement of Cash Flow Information - Narrative (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract_7c6488fa-cc76-4efa-87af-92eec5719cde" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CapitalExpendituresIncurredButNotYetPaid" xlink:label="us-gaap_CapitalExpendituresIncurredButNotYetPaid_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract_7c6488fa-cc76-4efa-87af-92eec5719cde" xlink:to="us-gaap_CapitalExpendituresIncurredButNotYetPaid_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureAllowanceForCreditLossesActivitiesInAllowanceForCreditLossesDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941501 - Disclosure - Allowance for Credit Losses - Activities In Allowance For Credit Losses (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_CreditLossAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_CreditLossAbstract_e2c6c95f-1d7e-4d59-bc7f-81e153500f70" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivableRollforward" xlink:label="us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivableRollforward_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_CreditLossAbstract_e2c6c95f-1d7e-4d59-bc7f-81e153500f70" xlink:to="us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivableRollforward_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivableCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivableCurrent_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivableRollforward_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivableCurrent_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodStartLabel" priority="1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_ProvisionForDoubtfulAccounts" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProvisionForDoubtfulAccounts_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivableRollforward_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProvisionForDoubtfulAccounts_639126620825819527" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" priority="4" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivableCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivableCurrent_6391266208258195271" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivableRollforward_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivableCurrent_6391266208258195271" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/periodEndLabel" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureFairValueMeasurementsPrincipalAmountAndEstimatedFairValueOfLongTermDebtDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941601 - Disclosure - Fair Value Measurements - Principal Amount And Estimated Fair Value Of Long-Term Debt (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:label="loc_us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract_ef76b036-092e-46b0-bd90-df3add333fbe" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisTable_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="loc_us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresAbstract_ef76b036-092e-46b0-bd90-df3add333fbe" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisTable_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisTable_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_MARADDebtMaturingFebruary2027Member" xlink:label="hlx_MARADDebtMaturingFebruary2027Member_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_639126620825819527" xlink:to="hlx_MARADDebtMaturingFebruary2027Member_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SeniorNotesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SeniorNotesMember_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_SeniorNotesMember_639126620825819527" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisLineItems_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisTable_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisLineItems_639126620825819527" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmount_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisLineItems_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmount_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/verboseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtFairValue_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisLineItems_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtFairValue_639126620825819527" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://www.helixesg.com/role/DisclosureSubsequentEventsDetails" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="99941701 - Disclosure - Subsequent Events (Details)" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventsAbstract_1" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTable_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventsAbstract_1" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTable_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTable_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_OwnershipAxis" xlink:label="srt_OwnershipAxis_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTable_639126620825819527" xlink:to="srt_OwnershipAxis_639126620825819527" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/srt/2025/elts/srt-2025.xsd#srt_OwnershipDomain" xlink:label="srt_OwnershipDomain_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_OwnershipAxis_639126620825819527" xlink:to="srt_OwnershipDomain_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_HelixEnergySolutionsMember" xlink:label="hlx_HelixEnergySolutionsMember_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_OwnershipDomain_639126620825819527" xlink:to="hlx_HelixEnergySolutionsMember_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_HornbeckMember" xlink:label="hlx_HornbeckMember_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="srt_OwnershipDomain_639126620825819527" xlink:to="hlx_HornbeckMember_639126620825819527" order="2" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/terseLabel" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="https://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2025/elts/us-gaap-2025.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTable_639126620825819527" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems_639126620825819527" order="3" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" />
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="hlx-20260331.xsd#hlx_EquityOwnershipPercentage" xlink:label="hlx_EquityOwnershipPercentage_639126620825819527" />
    <presentationArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/arcrole/parent-child" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventLineItems_639126620825819527" xlink:to="hlx_EquityOwnershipPercentage_639126620825819527" order="1" use="optional" preferredLabel="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/label" priority="1" />
  </presentationLink>
  <presentationLink xlink:role="http://xbrl.sec.gov/ecd/role/InsiderTradingArrangements" xlink:type="extended" xlink:title="995445 - Disclosure - Insider Trading Arrangements" xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" />
</link:linkbase>
