With a boat this size it is possible to sail quite safely with only two people on board. South next fall. Seasickness is the most debilitating condition for owner as he has to stay on watch and handle the boat no matter the conditions for the safety of everyone on board. Again sailing with perspective crew is so important. If your lady friend is prone to seasickness maybe she should fly down and meet you after you have completed a long passage and just day sail till she gets her sea legs.
Personalities are always different.
Seems it is a stress thing due to the anxiety of being at sea in a strange environment that take its toll. Just because a couple sails together doesn't mean they are a happy sailing team. It's a tough one to foresee. In retrospect we should be greatfull to Bruce for being so honest and humble in his narrative. We can all remember that a long passage is nothing but a series of clamities that have to be dealt with.