A multi-agency response after a dead man and woman were found washed ashore at Sable Island National Park Reserve.

RCMP say they and the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre were contacted by Parks Canada Wednesday afternoon after the bodies were discovered in a 10-foot inflatable boat- at this time, thought to be a lifeboat, from a bigger vessel, Theros.

They are believed to be two sailors, a 70-year-old man and 60-year-old woman from British Columbia.

They were reported missing one week after leaving Halifax Harbour June 11, on their way to the Azores.

The provinces medical examiner is working on identifying them, as the investigation continues with Parks Canada, the Coast Guard and the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre.