Kraken: a new approach for ultra low cost oceanic transport of fresh water, natural gas, and thermal energy

Kraken is a new mode of ocean transport that can carry very large amounts of bulk cargoes for long distances at much lower cost than by conventional ships. Moreover, the submerged Krakens travel at a depth of 100 meters or more, where there is no wave or storm action. As a result, the probability of damaging or losing Krakens due to storms or collisions is virtually zero. Conventional surface ships and submersibles are based on rigid assemblies of steel plates and beams that must operate in severe storms and high wave conditions. They are expensive to build and have to operate at relatively high speeds to return their investment. As a result, propulsion power and energy requirements per unit amount of cargo are high. Typically, the overall cost of transport, amortized capital plus energy, is about 1 cent per ton mile. Not only does this substantially increase the cost of commodities like oil, coal, etc. that are transported over long distances, but it also rules out transporting cargoes such as fresh water, because the cost is too great. Kraken structures are completely different from conventional ships and submersibles, enabling them to be much cheaper to construct and operate