We will be in Ushuaia in early March and have already booked a tour to San Martillo for the penguins and plan to hire a private guide to explore Tierra del Fuego. We will still have a half-day and overnight in town. Are there suggestions of things to do and see in the actual town, and recommendations for accommodations close to the tourist pier? And restaurants! Also, am I correct in understanding that since we will be leaving Ushuaia by cruise ship, we HAVE to go through the Beagle Channel?

Yes if you look at a map you will see that Ushuaia is situated on the Beagle Channel so any ship will transit either east or west along the channel. Pack your seasick meds and ginger candies!.

There is not a lot to do in the town of Ushuaia. We enjoyed fresh seafood at El Viejo Marino.