A young prince named Derek and a princess named Odette meet as children when their parents arrange for them to marry in order to unite their kingdoms. Initially disliking each other, they grow up meeting each summer and eventually fall in love. However, when Derek clumsily proposes solely based on Odette’s beauty, she rejects him, leaving him devastated. On her journey back to her kingdom, Odette and her father are attacked by the evil sorcerer Rothbart, who seeks to take over their kingdom. Odette is captured and cursed to transform into a swan by day, only regaining her human form by moonlight at a enchanted lake.

Determined to rescue Odette, Derek sets out on a quest, suspecting that his true love is alive despite reports of her death. With the help of forest animals like the helpful puffin Speed, the frog Jean-Bob who believes he is a prince, and a gentle turtle named Puffin, Derek uncovers Rothbart’s plan. As he faces magical trials and battles Rothbart’s dark powers, Derek learns the true meaning of love and bravery. The story propels towards an intense confrontation where Derek must overcome Rothbart’s enchantments to save Odette and unite their kingdoms once and for all.