A cryogenic material transfer system incorporates a pipe-in-pipe configuration with a nanoporous or microporous insulating layer filling the annulus between the inner and outer pipe. The insulating layer is of sufficient flexibility to absorb and expansion or contraction of the inner pipe due to the flow of cryogenic material therethrough. For longer transfer systems a bulkhead is provided between adjacent pipe joints. Intermediately of the pipe joints an additional bulkhead may be employed to provide additional sealing or water stops and for providing provide additional load transfer. A fiber optic sensor system is installed in the annuals between the inner and outer pipe.