Abstract: A floating wave generating device for generating a standing wave in a standing water body or water basin includes at least one water acceleration section, at least one wave generation section arranged downstream of the water acceleration section, and at least one pump. The at least one pump is arranged in such a way that with this pump water from the underwater area of the standing water body or water basin can be conveyed to a starting level which is higher than the water level of the standing water body or water basin, in order to generate a water flow directed toward the wave generation section by utilizing gravity. Furthermore, the apparatus is arranged in relation to the standing water body or water basin such that the standing water body or water basin with its water level is part of the wave generation section.