The present invention relates in a first aspect to a liquid removal device, and in a second aspect to a method for removing a liquid, such as oil or an algae slurry, from a surface of water. The device comprises a circumferentially extending flexible wall element defining together with a bottom part a suction chamber for receiving the liquid. A floater body is sealingly connected to the flexible wall element at an upper edge of the latter, and is able to effectuate a movement in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the surface of water. The floater body has a circumferentially extending outer member and an inner member. The inner member is adapted to receive a buoyant force exerted by the liquid contained in the suction chamber. The outer member has an upper circumferential edge for receiving the liquid.