The theoretical model of laminar flow in a channel or tube under ocean conditions is established. The velocity and temperature correlations are derived, and the frictional resistance coefficient and Nusselt number are also obtained. The theoretical results are in agreement with experimental data. The oscillation of parameters is induced by the tangential force due to ocean conditions. The effect of centrifugal and Coriolis forces on the flow is negligible. The effects of several parameters on the frictional resistance coefficient and Nusselt number are investigated. The oscillating amplitude of Nusselt number increases with the increasing of Prandtl number. Both the oscillating amplitudes of frictional resistance coefficient and Nusselt number increase with the increasing of rolling frequency. Crown Copyright (C) 2011 Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.