Middle of the night idea:

If the plates of MDF forming the tool could be positioned with a gap big enough for the vacuum and inlet hoses and spiral, we could have infusion on both sides relatively independent from each other. The gap would have to be bridged by a backing plate and sealed. 

It would mean a bit of ugliness to grind and sand off on the "good" side. But it could also reduce the number of holes to drill in the foam, reduce the useless epoxy in remaining in these holes, and the core could be the cheaper solid stuff. There would be less risk of dry areas. Overall a stronger and lighter laminate would result.

The laminating table could be built the same way, with one or more channels, and the individual panels centred over them. 

Given the workboat finish the melamine/mdf gives, would the grinding scar be a bid deal?

Lots of little details to discuss if worth it. Thoughts?