AFP investigating 'suspicious packages' on capsized boat used by men found clinging to esky

The boat after it was hauled to shore at Peaceful Bay. (Supplied)

Australian Federal Police (AFP) say "suspicious packages" have been found on board a vessel that capsized off Western Australia's south coast last week.

The boat sank with three men on board off Eclipse Island near Albany on February 1, sparking a major marine rescue that gained national headlines when they were found floating in the Southern Ocean clinging to an esky. 

The AFP told the ABC the packages were found on the capsized vessel when it was hauled to shore by a marine rescue group on Wednesday after it washed up in Peaceful Bay.

"The AFP can confirm it is investigating the discovery of suspicious packages found on a vessel in WA's Great Southern [region] yesterday," a spokesperson said.

The men had been fishing when their vessel capsized in heavy seas and started to sink.

The upturned vessel was discovered by fishers about 90 kilometres west of where it capsized.

Three men cling to an esky in rough waters before being rescued off WA's coast.(Supplied: Australian Maritime Safety Authority)

The AFP spokesperson said Australian Border Force was also investigating.

Police urged anyone with information about the incident to call Crime Stoppers or the AFP.

The wrecked boat was hauled ashore after being found 90km west of where it capsized. (Supplied: South Coast Volunteer Marine Rescue)