A removable wavemaker having a self-supporting structure for use in a wave tank has an integrated mounting structure for mounting on a frame of an open top of the wave tank, a linear motor positioned above a waterline in the wave tank having a forcer containing activation coils that is driven in reciprocation motion by electromagnetic interaction with an array of permanent magnets contained in a tubular support structure on which the forcer is configured to slide, and a vertically-oriented wave board mounted on a lower part of the integrated mounting structure below the waterline for generating waves within the wave tank. The forcer is supported on a movable carriage that rides on a rail fixed to the integrated mounting structure and is coupled to the wave board.