A wave energy device converts the motion of waves on a body of water into a usable form of energy, for example a flow of pressurized water or an electrical current. The device includes a buoyant body for tracking the rise and fall of the waves and a working surface coupled for movement with the buoyant body and which is designed to capture and convert both heave and surge forces of the waves. The invention also involves a rapid deployment and retrieval capability and a capability to rotate to accommodate changes in wave direction. The device is universally attached to the seafloor, which allows the device to safely pitch, yaw and roll with the wave forces from any direction thereby reducing the likelihood of damage due to extreme weather or marine traffic. The universal attachment also allows the device to automatically adjust for varying water elevation due to tides.